Obituary

Leah "Lear" Toney Owens

February 22, 1936 - January 19, 2026

Leah “Lear” Toney Owens, a lifelong resident of Washington Parish, passed away on January 19, 2026 at the age of 89. Born on February 22, 1936, in Angie, Louisiana, Leah was the third child of Murphy and Lula Toney and grew up surrounded by the love of her four sisters. She remained deeply rooted in her community throughout her life.

Leah graduated from Pine High School and went on to dedicate many years to the Washington Parish School System as a school bus driver, a role through which she touched countless young lives. She was also a talented seamstress and the proud owner of a floral shop, sharing her creativity and care with those around her.

Leah married Elvis Easterling, and together they raised three children: Fran, Keith, and Ricky. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and her faith and commitment to her church and community were central parts of her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Murphy and Lula Toney; her sisters, Nita Easterling, Cassie Barber, and her twin, Vera Shettles; and her daughter, Fran Easterling.

Left to cherish her memory are her sister, BeBe (Roy) Fussell; her sons, Keith (Kim) Easterling and Ricky (Lorrie) Easterling; her grandchildren—Zachary Easterling, Whitney (Frank) Gambino, Brandi (Brian) Broom, Alisha (Tristin) Easterling, Katelynn (Michael) Arguelles, and Aaron Easterling—as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love, strength, and kindness.

Funeral arrangements will be held at Brown’s Funeral Home on January 21, 2026, from 10:00a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The service will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service at Mustard Ground Cemetery.