DEFIANCE, OH – Elaine Marie Lethers, age 82, of Defiance, died peacefully at Community Health Professionals Hospice Center on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, with family by her side. She was born on November 1, 1942, in Stryker, OH, to the late Russel and Gladys (Elser) Carlin. She was a 1960 graduate of Stryker High School and later went to cosmetology school. She obtained her license and began her career as a hairdresser. On April 22, 1961, she married Donald Lethers, and they were happily married for 57 years.

She is survived by three girls, Denise (Ron) Rue, Lisa (Jeff) Roddy, and Dawn (Scott) Williams, four grandchildren, and two sisters, Beverly (James) Brown and Connie (Russell) Cramer. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Donald; brothers, Gene and Harold Carlin, and James Brown, as well as great granddaughter, Wella Claire Williams.

Elaine enjoyed being with her family (especially the grandkids), laughing, and playing games. She was known among friends and family for being very wise and humble, as well as for being a giver. Others were drawn to her for her kind spirit. Elaine was a member of Defiance Church of the Nazarene. She loved meeting with her prayer group and fellowshipping with her friends at Cabin Fever weekly.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 11:00AM-12:00PM at Defiance Church of the Nazarene, 1656 Jefferson Ave, Defiance, OH 43512. A funeral service will follow at the church at 12:00PM, officiated by Pastor Carol Retcher. Flowers may be delivered to the church on Tuesday between 9:00-11:00AM. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the church, in honor of Elaine. For additional information and to view Elaine’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.


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