Loveda May Liechty, 98, died April 19, 2025. She was born May 18, 1926, in Fort Wayne, Ind., to Amos and Lillie (Liechty) Lederman. On June 8, 1947, she married Wayne Joseph Liechty and moved to Archbold, Ohio, where they built a life centered on family, faith and community. They developed successful John Deere dealerships and shared 58 years of marriage until Wayne died Nov. 26, 2005.
Her life was a testimony of steadfast faith, strength and service. Her door was always open, and there was always something good to eat in her kitchen. She was an accomplished seamstress. Her hospitality was pro-
found, offering warmth and welcome. She and Wayne traveled throughout the U.S. and to many foreign countries.
A lifelong member of West Clinton Mennonite Church in Wauseon, Ohio, she taught vacation Bible school and Sunday school, served on church planning committees and enjoyed her Mennonite Women’s sewing group. She and Wayne participated in five short-term voluntary service assignments, serving as far away as Florida and Brownsville, Texas.
She lived her faith through relationships and liked to have fun. She showed love for her family by praying for each one, hosting holidays and having beautiful handmade quilts ready for all the high school graduations.
Surviving are children Shirlyn Jean (Randy) Graber of Bel Aire, Kan., Ellen Marie (Neil) Lehman of Johnstown, Pa., and daughter-in-law Holly Beth (Christopher) Liechty of Archbold; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a great-great-granddaughter
She was preceded in death by her husband; son Christopher Liechty; sister Kathryn Kauffman; and brother Cornell Lederman.
A celebration of life service will be held at 5 p.m. July 2 at West Clinton Mennonite Church.
