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Loretta Leeker Obituary
Leeker, Loretta "Lori", 68, passed Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 after a hard-fought battle against Pancreatic Cancer. She leaves her husband of 46 years, Rick; daughter, Jacquie; son, Kayden; granddaughter, Collins; & friends. She graduated with two masters degrees in English and Linguistics from George Mason University. An obituary could never sum up all the ways she positively impacted patients, students, communities, friends, and family. She had an amazing sense of humor and passion for rescuing dogs. Services: Collier's Funeral Home, visitation is Oct. 8 at noon until celebration of life at 1 p.m.
Memories and Condolences
for Loretta Leeker
5 Entries
Brenda Meisel
October 7, 2025
When we were in our 30s, Lori gave me a birthday card with a picture of two old ladies strolling through a park holding hands, one hand-labeled “you” and the other “me.” She chuckled and said, “That’ll be us when we’re old.” I’m so glad that even then, shortly after we met, she knew we would be friends for life. She turned our office hours into the best “coffee clutch” ever, where we talked about family, poetry, parenthood, the future, and sometimes work. We went through some of life’s toughest and happiest times together. She made me laugh, allowed me to cry, and just really “got” me.
The best thing? I know she did this for many, many people. She rallied her students, colleagues, and friends to be their best selves. She listened intently and made people feel seen. She had a feisty gusto for living and a gift for sharing it. And she laughed—always laughed. It was hard to know Lori and not understand that your life had just been made better. The world is a lesser place with her gone.
My heart goes out to Rick, Jacquie, and Kayden. I hope you find solace in the memories, stories, and always the laughter.
I will really miss you, my friend. LYLAS.
Julie Quinn
October 7, 2025
I worked with Lori for over a decade at NOVA, and she was such an incredible woman, friend, scholar, and teacher. I learned so much from our impromptu conversations on "the hall," and we had a special connection having been hired the same semester. I jokingly called us "the twins." I remember so many lovely social moments as well, the deep conversations at Bob and Denny's house, spending time with Lori and Rick at their house and meeting the pups and kids, and just all around finding that Lori was such an integral part of my work life and memories. And the laughter! Anything could be made lighter just by telling it to Lori. When she retired I was pretty sad selfishly, and yet I knew it was the perfect choice for her. There will never be a professor like Prof. Leeker, or such a kind friend.
Lori w/Northern Virginia Community College colleagues
Stephanie Harm
October 6, 2025
Lori was the very best. I wish I had told her her how much she meant to me. It's a good reminder to tell people what they mean to us--life is too short for too many. My deepest condolences to Rick, Jacquie, and Kayden. Lori was loved by so many.
Donna Riddel
October 5, 2025
I'm so sorry to learn of Lori's passing! I thought she had a little more time...
Gloria Fruit
October 5, 2025
My deepest sympathy to Rick, Jacquie, Kayden and the rest of her family and friends. Lori never stopped striving -- as a student, teacher and administrator. She was a wonderful person and dear friend for over 20 years. I will greatly miss her.
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Memorial Events
for Loretta Leeker
Oct
8
Service
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Collier’s Funeral Home
3400 North Lindbergh Blvd.
Oct
8
Memorial service
1:00 p.m.
Collier’s Funeral Home
3400 North Lindbergh Blvd.
Funeral services provided by:
Collier’s Funeral Home - Saint Ann3400 North Lindberg Blvd. , Saint Ann, MO 63074-2103
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