Lucinda Faye Leader

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lucinda Faye Leader, who left us on Friday, October 25, 2024. She was born on October 22, 1969 to Wendell and Toni (Miller) Leader, and raised in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, Lucinda graduated from Tishomingo High School in 1987 and later earned her degree from Murray State College in 2003. Her passion for sports was evident throughout her life; she excelled in basketball, softball, and track, creating lasting memories both on and off the field with her teammates and friends. Lucinda dedicated many years of her career to serving the Chickasaw Nation, working in various departments including facility services, the eye clinic, and the CNMC Café. Her commitment to her work and community reflected her caring nature and desire to make a positive impact on those around her. Outside of her professional life, Lucinda enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including woodworking, gardening, sewing, baking, and painting. She was especially known for her incredible cinnamon rolls, peanut butter cookies, and an array of special treats that delighted family and friends. The highlight of her life, she often said, was watching her children grow and witnessing them build families of their own, a joy that filled her heart with pride. Lucinda also imparted invaluable life lessons to those around her, teaching the importance of being selfless, forgiving, having faith, and giving with a loving heart. Her wisdom and compassion left a lasting impression on her family and friends. Lucinda was preceded in death by her father, Wendell Leader; former spouse, Lamont BigHair; grandparents, Benjamin and Lillian Miller; uncle, Bobby Miller; aunt, Sharon Wilson. Those she leaves to cherish her memories are her mother, Toni (Miller) Leader; son, Justin McWilliams and wife Victoria, and daughters, Sasha Riddle and husband Ross, Nika BigHair and husband Jess Roberts, and Olivia McWilliams; sister, Tajuana Johnson and husband Dennis, and Connie Leader; grandchildren, Teagan BigHair, Eastin Roberts, Chloe McWilliams, Aubrey McWilliams, Delaney McWilliams, Brayden Green, and Austin and Desmond Riddle. Known for her warm spirit and infectious laughter, Lucinda touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a beacon of support and encouragement, always putting others before herself. Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through the lives she touched. Services to honor and celebrate the life of Lucinda Faye Leader will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at DeArman-Clark Funeral Home in Tishomingo with Pastor Allen Beck to officiate. Those serving as pallbearers will be Bryan Samis, Alex Walton, George Reid, Jess Roberts, Ross Riddle and Paul Wilson, Jr. Arrangements were made under the direction and care of DeArman-Clark Funeral Home. Friends and family may leave online condolences on our website at www.dearmanfuneralhome.com

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Lucinda Faye Leader

October 22, 1969 - October 25, 2024