Leta Sullivan

1935 - 2026

Leta was born in Kansas and raised mostly in La Junta, Colorado, in a modest home and with few expectations, both of which she quietly exceeded. It was there she met Otis. They married young and remained married for 69 years, until his death in March of 2025. Their marriage was marked less by sentimentality than by endurance, loyalty, and a shared determination to remain faithful to one another through the long arc of life. When it counted most, they stood by each other.
Because of Otis's railroad work, she moved often in the early years, adapting without complaint, or maybe just a few. In 1965 they settled in Clovis, New Mexico, where she lived in the same house for the rest of her life, and where she ultimately passed. Other than a few trips to Vegas, she was not someone who chased novelty. She valued steadiness, routine, and staying put.
She was strong-willed and spunky. She walked the mall nearly every day for decades, almost until the end. She worked for many years at the Allsup's corporate offices as a payroll supervisor and was known for her dependability. She rarely missed a day of work, not out of ambition, but out of stubbornness and responsibility.
She raised three children-Karen, Kelli, and Keith-and loved them in ways that were practical, consistent, and enduring. She was a fun, devoted and engaged "Granny" to her grandchildren: Cody, Kyle, Paul, Gideon, and Mary.
She was one tough lady, but she was deeply loyal. Once you were family, or truly a friend, you could count on her. Her care was expressed through action more than words, and it did not waver. Despite her toughness, she wasn't above throwing in a few crude practical jokes to get everyone laughing.
Her life was not flashy or loud. It was long, steady, and shaped by perseverance, duty, and a rare kind of faithfulness-the kind that lasts till the end.
Leta is survived by her children; Karen Peraino (Michael), Kelli Doss (Alan), and Keith Sullivan (Kristie); her grandchildren, Kyle Doss, Paul Peraino, Mary Sullivan and Gideon Sullivan; and her brother David Cole.
She was preceded in death by her husband Otis Sullivan; her parents, Frank and Dorothy Cole, her grandson Cody Doss, and her siblings Frank Cole and Betty Pearson.
A cremation will take place and a private family service will be held at a later date. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to all who have shared in Leta's life and legacy. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and she will be deeply missed.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Muffley Funeral Home, www.muffleyfuneralhome.com, (575) 762-4435.