Erminie Spence Leppo, 88, went home to be with her Savior on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, celebrated beneath a sky alive with fireworks. This fitting farewell honored a woman who filled every space with her vibrant presence—a devoted follower of Christ who often joked she was “Jesus’s favorite.” Her faith shaped her life and the way she loved others; love was not optional, but her mission.

Erminie was a big-hearted force with a warmth as comforting as sweet tea. She had a unique talent for turning strangers into friends within moments, making everyone feel valued, regardless of background. Her love for life included a flair for drama—flashy jewelry and bold statements often accompanied her fierce, competitive spirit, especially in games. Yet beneath her fun exterior lived a sensitive heart that expressed love sincerely and often.

Despite enduring emotional and physical pain, Erminie’s hardships softened her heart rather than hardening it. She loved fiercely because she understood what it meant to hurt. She believed deeply that loving others was a calling for all who followed Christ.

Hymns were a cherished part of her life, with family memories layered in music—such as singing “I Surrender All” on cabin porches while a nearby creek whispered melodies. Those moments, once joyful, now feel sacred in her absence.

In her final years, witnessing her sparkle fade was difficult, but there is comfort in knowing she is whole again—restored and at peace—likely engaged in lively conversation with Jesus. Though she spoke often of the end times and may have been disappointed to miss the rapture, the fireworks that marked her homecoming reflect heaven’s joyful welcome.

Erminie was preceded in death by her parents, Elizabeth Kilpatrick Spence and Oscar Robert Spencer. She is survived by her loving husband, Philip Leppo, whom she adored for 64 wonderful years after they met on a blind date in 1961. She dearly loved her children—LeAnn Leppo Chandler, Christopher Leppo, Keren Leppo, Minette Leppo Cordery, Williams Leppo, and Sandy Leppo—along with her 11 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, treating each as if they were her favorite.

She thrived in celebrations and brought joy wherever she went. As she transitioned from this life into eternity, the sky itself seemed to celebrate her spirit. Erminie Spence Leppo was an extraordinary woman and a remarkable gift to all who knew her.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

—Matthew 25:23

Care of the Leppo Family has been entrusted to In Their Honor Funeral and Cremation Providers.