Edna Earl (Admire) Lea, 86, of Marshall Junction, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Edna was born on June 9, 1939, in Cross Timbers, Missouri, to the late James Orval Earl Admire and Ina Faye (Southard) Admire. She married Robert Ansel (Bob) Lea on June 4, 1955, and together they raised five children; Bobby (Cindy), Pam (Randy), Wyatt (Rebecca), Kay (John), and Cindy (John). She was also the proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Ganger.”

Edna was known for her amazing cooking skills. Everyone loved her pies, noodles, and biscuits. She was so good at cooking that she could even “take a leather boot” and make it into a meal fit for a king. Her biggest enjoyments in life were spending time with her family, playing cards, and visiting with company that stopped by her house. Whether it was a warm meal, a listening ear, or a quick-witted comment, she had a gift for building strong relationships.

Edna is survived by her children, grandchildren, brother John Admire & his wife Debbie, two brothers-in-law, Vernon Lea and Nathan Benscoter, and sister-in-law Judy Purkey, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings-Walter, Mae, Chloe Dean, and Orvaleen.

Edna spent the last few months of her life at The Living Center in Marshall. She always commented on how much she appreciated the wonderful care she received from the nurses and staff.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Campbell-Lewis Chapel in Marshall with William W. Harlow officiating.  Burial will follow at Longwood Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Shriners Children’s Hospital St. Louis.  An online guestbook is available at www.campbell-lewis.com