Leona Marie Derry, 90, a lifelong resident of St. Maries, Idaho, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. 

She was born on July 17, 1935, in St. Maries to Albert and Margaret Arrhenius. Leona was raised in her hometown and graduated from St. Maries High School with the Class of 1953, carrying with her the strong values and close-knit community spirit that would define her life. 

Following high school, Leona began working at First Security Bank. On February 10, 1957, she married Harold Derry in St. Maries. Together, they began building a life centered on family. The couple moved to Philipsburg, Montana, where Leona embraced her role as a devoted homemaker, dedicating herself to raising their children. 

In the 1960s, the family relocated to Cave Junction, Oregon, and later to other parts of southern Oregon, following Harold’s work in the logging industry. They eventually settled in White City, where Leona continued nurturing her family and creating a warm, loving home. 

In 1997, Leona and Harold returned to St. Maries to enjoy their retirement years. Harold preceded her in death in 2005. 

Leona found great joy in the simple beauty of life. She loved crocheting, tending her garden, and cultivating flowers - bringing color and life to everything she touched. Her hands were rarely still, and her creations and gardens reflected her patience, care, and quiet creativity. 

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Scott (Tamie) Derry of Post Falls, Idaho; Andy Derry of Fernwood, Idaho; Steve (Autumn) Derry of Gold Hill, Oregon; and Paul Derry of Dallas Oregon; her sister, Lyla (Bill) Meagher of Plummer Idaho; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Leona was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; her sons, Leonard Derry, Wes Derry, and Mike Derry; and her siblings, Esper Brebner, Edna Maloy, Dwight (Dewey) Arrhenius, Albert (Shorty) Arrhenius. 

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Woodlawn Cemetery in St. Maries, Idaho. A gathering of family and friends will follow at the Elks Lodge, where all are welcome to share memories and a meal in her honor. 

Friends and family are invited to visit Leona’s online tribute and leave condolences at hodgefuneralhome.com. 

Leona will be remembered for her quiet strength, her deep love of family, and her ability to make things grow—both in her garden and in the lives of those around her.