Leatrice L. Longbons

Today, we remember and celebrate the beautiful life of Leatrice Lovene Longbons, a woman deeply devoted to her faith, fiercely unique, and remembered by many as a gifted and generous seamstress. She had a heart full of grace and hands that lovingly stitched together not only fabric, but the lives of those around her.

Born in Ellery, Illinois on January 5, 1930, to Sylvan and Gladys (Fewkes) Woods, Leatrice lived a life marked by love, service, and quiet strength. She entered her eternal home in heaven on July 14, 2025 at 95 years of age.

In August of 1968, she married Gerald Longbons at Little Prairie Christian Church, a union rooted in faith and companionship.

She was a lifelong member of Little Prairie Christian Church, where she taught Sunday School for 50 years.

Leatrice was a devoted mother and stepmother. She is lovingly survived by her three daughters: Cindy (Vic) Lowe of Lincoln, Illinois, Lesa (Rick) Etheridge of Albion, Illinois, and Sheila (Sam) Smith, also of Albion. She is also remembered by her stepdaughter, Ellen Sams of Evansville, Indiana. A brother, Earl Fewkes, also survives.

Her legacy lives on in her 10 grandchildren Shadina, Landon, Seily, Macey, Cassie, Shea, Lydia, Becky, Zannie and Jay; and 25 great-grandchildren, each one a testament to the love and values she so generously shared.

Leatrice’s life was a tapestry of kindness, creativity, and unwavering faith. She touched many hearts and will be remembered not only for her remarkable talents, but for her warm smile, her gentle spirit, and her love of Jesus.

She was truly one of a kind—and we are all better for having known and loved her.

Leatrice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gerald Longbons; a son-in-law Larry Sams; a grandson Eli Sams; her sister Elwanda Michels, and brother in-law Frank “Mike” Michels.

Services for Leatrice L. Longbons will be held Monday, July 21, 2025 with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Ingram Meridith Funeral Home in Albion, Illinois. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Little Prairie Cemetery following the funeral service.

Memorials in the name of Leatrice L. Longbons can be given to Little Prairie Cemetery or Wanboro Cemetery. Donation envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Ingram Meridith Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with arrangements for Leatrice L. Longbons.