Leona M. Gridley, long-time resident of Redmond, passed away peacefully in her home on June 3, 2012. Leona was born to Delmar and Eleanora Pepperling on March 31, 1937. She grew up in Sisters, Oregon, and graduated from Sisters High School where she met the love of her life and future husband, David Gridley. She was Sisters May Day Queen, and participated in cheerleading, majorettes, choir, theater and dance.
Leona and David were married on December 18, 1954. They raised their four children in Madras, moving them to Redmond in 1972. Leona was an avid sports fan, following all of her children and grandchildren in football, baseball, cheerleading, gymnastics and basketball. She enjoyed participating in bowling leagues with David. Leona also had a special place in her heart for her cats, Miss and Sophie.
Family members describe Leona as the "thread that tied the family together," as her warm spirit and home always brought relatives and friends together from far and wide. She was affectionately known as 'Mother Tums' to all. She will be greatly missed by family, friends and the Redmond community.
Leona was preceded in death by her husband, as well as both of her parents, and brother, Gary. She is survived by her four children: Mickey Gridley of Seattle, WA, wife, Michelle and children, Madison and Mac; Victtoria Grensky of Jacksonville, Oregon, husband, Ron, children, Lexi, Jillian and Christian; Bob Gridley of The Dalles, Oregon, wife, Jan and son, Bo; and Steven Gridley of Tasmania, Australia, wife, Jacqui and children, Sarah Kate and Jason, as well as great-granddaughter, Emma Grace. She is also survived by her sisters, Chris Dickens, Crystal Burton and Lydia Pepperling; and brother, Bruce Pepperling.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 9, at 10:00 a.m., at Autumn Funerals, 485 NW Larch Avenue, Redmond with a graveside service to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to your local Humane Society.
