Jerie Kaye Leep

Jerie Kaye Leep, 59, fell asleep in death on March 17, 2026, after a battle with cancer which she met with courage and humor, quoting Shakespeare to the end. Born to Vernon Arthur Leep and Audrey (Horn) Leep on December 27, 1966, Jerie grew up in Vian, attended Vian High School, and earned an English degree from the University of Oklahoma.

After graduation, Jerie pursued her vocation of teaching. She joined the Peace Corps and taught English in the Marshall Islands for several years, then moved to New Mexico where she taught high school English and History for Gallup Mckinley Schools. As a high school teacher, Jerie instilled a love of writing, poetry, and drama to countless students who went on to graduate and go to college. Jerie was a creative teacher and drama coach, and took joy in touching hearts and minds of her "scholastic family" through her twenty year vocation.

After taking medical retirement, Jerie loved to travel the roads not taken on summer trips with her mom and sis. She used her creativity to pursue her personal passions such as making quilts and jewelry. Though she was a cat lady, she wasn't a crazy cat lady. She is survived by her sister, Verna Elaine Leep, who will miss her, and has promised to take care of her two cats, Marley and Tippy.

The family would like to thank Heart of Hospice for their compassion and dedicated care, especially her nurse and home health aide, and Annette, her case manager, advocate, and friend.

Just a short rest Jerie, and then you'll be hiking the mountain trails, again.

Cremation services are under the care of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.