Leah Ruth Tagtmeyer , 96, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully at her home at 3:25 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

She was born September 17, 1928, in Portsmouth, Ohio, a daughter of the late Clyde and Atha (Boss) Manley.  Growing up in Portsmouth, she graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1946, and then the family moved to Fort Wayne.

In 1946, Leah took a job with Lincoln Life in Fort Wayne.  On January 28, 1950, she married a farmer, Richard D.  Tagtmeyer.  They made their home on a farm in rural Columbia City, raising two children.  She managed the business side of their farming operation.  Her beloved husband of 45 years died on May 1, 1995.

In addition to being a farm wife and homemaker, Leah worked at Weatherhead, Producers Marketing Association, Columbia Engineering Company, and the Whitley County Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) for a combined 30 years.  After retiring, she continued to live on the family farm and assist with the farming operation.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, family was always her priority.  She enjoyed reading and keeping up with current events.  She liked gardening flowers and the annual vegetable garden, which she would can or freeze for use throughout the year.

She was a member of the Columbia City United Methodist Church.

Surviving are her children, Marsha Roth of Fort Wayne and Mark (Jeanne) Tagtmeyer of Columbia City; grandchildren, Dr. Timothy (Sara) Roth of Lancaster, PA, Dr. Daniel (Courtney) Roth of Fort Wayne, Ann Roth of Washington DC, Sarah (Scott Chanley) Tagtmeyer of Huntington, step granddaughter Mary (Jonathan) Schulz; and five great-grandchildren and eight step great-grandchildren.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by a sister, Jane Collier, and a son-in-law, Timothy Roth.

A private family service will be held at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Burial will be beside her husband at Nolt Cemetery.

Memorials in Leah's honor are to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.