Leatrice Gallien

Leatrice Gallien, age 90 passed away Sunday, November 8 at Ohio Eastern Star Nursing Home in Mt. Vernon, Ohio.  She was born August 20, 1936 in Harrison County, WV to Vance and Pauline (Hughes) Courtney.

Survived by daughter Teresa (Don) Dougherty ,grandchildren  Paul (Amanda) Crego and family and Michelle (Anthony) Pappas and family  and son in law, Lyle Griffith.

Preceded in death by Husband, Okey Gallen, daughter Polly Griffith, parents Vance and Pauline Courtney and first great grandchild Kali Rae Crego.

She graduated from Unitus High School in 1954 and Glenville State College in 1958 with a degree in Home Economics.  She later completed a Master’s Degree in Vocational Education at Marshall University.

On June 7, 1958 she married Okey F. Gallien Jr, They were married 66 years.

She taught 33 years for the Barbour County school system first in 8^th grade science then Vocational Food Service. During her tenure in Food Service she and her students hosted multiple banquets for various causes throughout the county. She loved to take her students to food service skills competition (HERO) both locally and at the national level.

After retirement Leatrice “Lea” and Okey started Gallien’s Auction Service which they operated for twenty-five years.

Active in the Lions Club, Lea was one of the first women members, serving as president for two years. She served as District 291 Sight Conservation Chairman. She was recipient of both the Melvin Jones and Leonard Jarret Awards.  One of her favorite projects was sending middle school students to Conservation Camp.

Lea was a member of Crim Memorial United Methodist Church and the Adaland Restoration Project.

Lea was well known for her cooking skills! Whether preparing delicious food at home for her family, serving banquets in the community or competing at a state or national level, she had a passion for the preparation and presentation of food.   It not only had to taste good, it had to look good too!

Friends will be received Saturday, November 21, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Wright Funeral Home and on-site Crematory 220 N. Walnut St. Philippi WV. Funeral services will begin at 3:00 pm. Live streaming of the funeral will be available.  Cremation will be observed.