Lauretta Leach

Lauretta Elizabeth (Duncan) Leach, the matriarch of our family, peacefully began her citizenship in heaven on October 2, 2023.  A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was a tower of strength, strict, and unafraid of discipline. Lauretta loved her family with all her heart. She was a devoted and faithful woman, responsible for giving us the solid foundation of our faith. She touched the lives of so many people throughout the years and earned the respect of all those who crossed her path.

Lauretta was born in Wenatchee, WA, on July 27, 1932, to Burton James and Goldie “Cecilia” Duncan. She was the younger sister of Ronald and Leonard Duncan. Like many, Lauretta faced hardships in her upbringing. However, with her strong faith she prevailed and blossomed into a beautiful lady inside and out. We are so proud of the woman she was!  

She graduated from Hoover High School in San Diego in June of 1951.  On July 8, 1951, Lauretta married Arnold “Bud” Leach, the man who brought her a lifetime of love and “the family she always dreamed of.” Lauretta greatly enjoyed being a devoted wife and mother. She supported her husband in his career throughout the years, which led to several relocations.  

Lauretta was passionate about travel and sightseeing. Eventually, she began her own career in the travel industry, starting as an agent in El Centro, CA in 1967.  In 1973, they relocated to Santa Paula, where she continued her role for many years booking trips and specializing in everything from Riviera cruises to Hawaiian vacations!  Lauretta was a “light” to everyone she encountered, radiating love, and compassion. She was well regarded and respected in the community and served as a member of the Soroptomist Club.  

Upon retirement in 1989, Bud and Lauretta moved to Northern California, where they enjoyed the country life with their youngest son’s family. In 1997, Lauretta and Bud came back home to Ventura County (Fillmore) to be reunited with family once again.

Our amazing mother, grandmother, and great grandmotherwas our #1 Fan! She made each and every one of us feel so special, creating bonds that would last a lifetime. A caregiver for those young and old until she was in her 80’s, this woman was warmhearted, hardworking, family oriented, and loyal! Lauretta gave new meaning to the word “available,” as she was ALWAYS there for her family.    

Lauretta was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold “Bud” Leach, and her two brothers Ronald and Leonard Duncan.

She is survived by her children: daughter Cheri (David) Wigton, son Russell Leach, son Michael (Tracie) Leach. Grandchildren: Julie (Joseph) Johnson, Jennifer (Eric)McCalister, Christopher Leach, Jason (Kayleen) Leach, Breanne Leach, Kaitlin (Adam) Peters, Alison Miller, and Elizabeth White. Great Grandchildren:  Christian (Lauren) Johnson, Sydney and Ellie Johnson, Christopher Leach Jr., Zachary, Addison, Nicholas, and Baby Peters, Kailyn and Hailey Miller, Nixon and Nolan White, and many nieces and nephews.

Our hearts are broken, but we are comforted in knowing our sweet and treasured mom and grandma Lauretta, is now in the presence of her Lord and Savior, dancing with the love of her life, Bud! 

“She is clothed with dignity and strength.” Proverbs 31:25

Our sincerest gratitude and heartfelt thanks for the staff members of the Victoria Care Center: Jean, Jun, Elena, Sara, and Anna.

A Celebration of Life will be held October 16th, 2023, at 11:00am. Perez Family Funeral Home.  738 E. Santa Paula St.  Santa Paula, CA.  Internment will take place at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, CA.