BUSHNELL, Fla. -- Leota "Pete" Sharpe went to be with the Lord Monday (Sept. 4, 2006) from her home in Bushnell, where she resided for the past year.

At her bedside were her husband, Fred, and her daughter, Christy, along with other family and friends.

She was born in Nappanee on Sept. 14, 1944, to Raymond and Geneva Weldy, who both preceded her in death. Surviving is her loving husband of 25 years, Fred Sharpe; her son, Mark (Sal) Reeves of Ann Arbor, Mich.; her daughter, Christy (Ty) Mishler; and one grandchild, Scott Mishler, both of Elkhart.

Also surviving is one brother, Owen R. Weldy of Bear Lake, Mich.; two sisters, Joan Throne of Ashburn, Va., and Sandy Rossi of Waco, Texas; and one stepsister, Dorothy Fritz of Goshen.

One stepbrother, Don Baker, preceded her in death.

Leota was a person who loved to help others. She was always available to anyone and leaves many loving friends. She never tired of being a listening ear to anyone, anywhere. She thanked God for everyone that she came in contact with.

She was a graduate of Elkhart Central High School, Bethel College in Mishawaka, and received her M.A. from Andrews University in Berrien Springs.

She was a 26-year member of Alcoholics Anonymous in the Elkhart area. Leota enjoyed traveling with her husband, spending time with family and friends, gardening, and being at the beach.

The viewing and homecoming celebration will be held at the Bristol Missionary Church, 19912 S.R. 120, Bristol, IN 46507, where she and her husband were members. Friends may call from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday. Services will be held on Sunday at 3 p.m., where friends may also call for one hour prior to the service. Pastor Jim Overhulser will officiate. Cremation will follow the services at the church.

At Leota's request, and in lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Hospice Foundation of Lake Sumter, 12300 Lane Park Road, Tavares, FL 32778-9972. We all appreciated the wonderful care they provided. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is in charge of arrangements.

Anyone wishing to send a condolence to the family may do so by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.

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