Myrtis E. Leighton

Myrtis Ennette Leighton passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 1, 2025. Myrtis was born August 2, 1935, in South Dakota, the second of three daughters born to Arnold and Ethel (Anderson) Dahl. Having lost her mother at the age of six, Myrtis had a different childhood that left her on her own at the age of 14. 

In 1952, at the age of 16, she married David Ray Leighton. Myrtis spent the first two years of their marriage finishing high school and working while Dave was in the Army stationed in Germany.

In 1956, they welcomed their first son, Rodney Ray while living in South Dakota. Shortly after, they moved to California where daughter, Rhonda Rae was born in 1958, followed by son, Randall Ray in 1962. They lived in California for 20 years before moving to their forever home in Meridian, Idaho. Myrtis worked as a bookkeeper/office manager for Mountain States Appraisal until her retirement at the age of 65.

Once retired and having survived kidney cancer, she and Dave had the joy of being "Snowbirds" for many years. They made friends and made great memories. Their last few years were spent together in their Meridian home enjoying the beautiful views of the Treasure Valley and the surrounding mountains until Dave's death in March of 2020.

Myrtis' world changed that day. Not only did she lose her partner of 67 plus years, but she was also then isolated due to the Pandemic. Missing dad and being lonely, she sold her home and moved into a Senior Living residence. In 2024 she relocated to Assisted Living. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; oldest son; younger sister, Marla and husband Dick Snyder; and her sister-in-law, Janice. Myrtis is survived by her daughter, Rhonda (Lee) Majors of Boise, ID; son, Randy (Bonnie) Leighton of Hailey, ID; and their families including numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Arlene (Arnie) Berkeland of Sioux Falls, SD. Special mention of Dave's family whom Myrtis was truly a part of, brothers-in-law Harold Leighton of Madison, SD and Terry (Janice) Leighton of Star, ID; and sister-in-law Audrey (Paul) Kinzer of Rio Vista, CA.

Myrtis was ready to go home to The Lord.  She was adamant that there would be no funeral for her, just like her husband Dave, as he was not allowed a funeral due to COVID protocols.   

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks and deep gratitude to the wonderful staff of Doctors Hospice of Idaho. They have been there for the last year and have helped make this journey easier for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating in Myrtis' name to "Mission Aviation Fellowship" Nampa, ID or donate directly to "Samaritan's Purse".