Carla Kaye Leach, 61, of Hutchinson, died January 8, 2018, at St. Francis Via Christi Campus, Wichita. She was born on May 7, 1956, to Palmer and Eulah A. (Shropshire) Jerde in Hutchinson.

Carla was a devout animal lover and rescued any animal she could. She loved traveling, especially to Maine where she ended up moving for a period of time.

Survivors include: son, Chris Ephraums and fiance Amber Gayle, Hutchinson; grandson, Devan Ephraums, long time companion, Ed Meyers, Hutchinson; sisters, Tammie Hazell and husband Johnnie, Mary Dove and companion Glenn Meyers; sister-in-law, Doris Jerde, all of Hutchinson; several nieces and nephews and a beloved great niece. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, John Lane and Richard L. Jerde.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 12, 2018, at Elliott Chapel with Pastor Charles Kerr presiding. Burial will be in Fairlawn Burial Park. Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary with the family to receive friends from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Memorials may be made to the Carla Leach Memorial Fund in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.