Lelani Roberta “Lani” Clark

Lelani Roberta “Lani” Clark, age 86 of Big Spring, Texas, passed away Monday, September 9, 2024, at the Parkview Nursing Home after declining in health.

A celebration of life will be held in Washington County, Iowa at a place and time to be determined by the family.

Lelani was born March 28, 1938, in Brighton, Iowa, the daughter of Clifford Wellington and Frances Pauline (Derby) Leeper. She graduated from Brighton High School in 1956. Lelani was married to John Abraham Clark on June 20, 1957 with whom she had 2 children, John II and Cristi René. John passed away on March 1, 1984.  On Dec 26, 2001 she married Everett Faltus.  They divorced in 2002.

Lelani graduated from Burlington Beauty Academy in 1957.  She worked alongside her husband in the restaurant, agricultural, and construction industries for many years, while also managing the home for her family.  After her husband’s passing, Lelani earned a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in 1990 and an M.S. in Psychology from Texas A&I University in 1992. She applied those skills as a volunteer within the Veterans Administration.  She retired to Big Spring, Texas, in 2000.

Lelani was an accomplished gardener and landscaper who dedicated countless hours to enhancing the beauty of the apartment complex where she lived. In addition to her colorful gardens, she set up feeding stations to attract native songbirds–she was a lifelong birdwatcher. Lelani was an enthusiastic puzzler, collaborating with fellow residents to complete and frame jigsaw puzzles that adorned the community hallways. She also quilted and was an avid reader. Her diverse reading interests encompassed classic literature, poetry, health, religion, philosophy, and, of course, gardening.  Within her community, she was known for her generosity and willingness to help others.

She is survived by her son, John “Jay” (Theresa) Clark of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter, Cristi René Pittman, of Dayton, Ohio; two grandchildren; one great grandchild; sister, Beth (Bill) Johnson, numerous nephews and nieces and great nephews and great nieces.

Lelani was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister, Katheryn West, and brothers, Benjamin Leeper, Charles Leeper and Clifford “Kit” Leeper.

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