Doris I. Leiter, 95, formerly of Sidney, died at 1:10 p.m. Thursday, May 19, 2022, at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City.

On December 20, 1926, she was born in Columbia City, Indiana, the youngest of three children of the late John and Mina (Gaff) Raypole. Doris' fondest memories of her youth were spending time with her mother, including snuggly naps. Unfortunately, Doris lost her mother at an early age and spent her entire life replicating those early magical years with anyone who needed her love and attention. She graduated from South Whitley High School in 1944.

On May 11, 1946, she married Max Charles Leiter. They made their home near Sidney, where they raised three sons. In 1969, they moved to Naples, Florida, and in 1976, the couple began returning to Sidney for the summers. In 2017, they moved to the Oaks Assisted Living Community, Columbia City.

Doris was an epic homemaker. Her dinners, pies, sassy attitude, love of sports, hatred of blueberries, and intoxicating laughter was loved by all who crossed her path. Doris opened their home to anyone who needed it and had more friends than can be counted. She worked at the Heckman Bindery in North Manchester for a few years. After the couple retired and moved to Florida, Doris did various service jobs.

Her grandkids remember her for her undying love and chocolate. Her famous red velvet cake, fudge nut brownies, chocolate cake with homemade caramel icing, and chocolate chip cookies were savored by all.

You could find Doris playing cards, donating money to random charities, playing whiffle ball, swatting flies, playing bingo, or correcting the kids' behavior.

Surviving is her husband of 76 years, Max; three sons, John Leiter and Tom (Linda) Leiter, both of Columbia City, and Michael Leiter of Naples, FL; eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Lois Miller; a brother, Scott Raypole; daughter-in-law, Sharon Leiter; and grandson, Charles John Leiter.

A graveside service is 2 p.m. Friday at the South Whitley Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.

Preferred memorials are to Mission 25, Columbia City.