Leia Matsumura's Obituary
Leia Elaine Matsumura (Craig), born on June 10, 1953, in Omaha, Nebraska, passed away surrounded by her loving family on November 18, 2024, at the age of 71. After 45 years of marriage to her beloved husband and a lifetime of love shared with her family, an irreplaceable piece is now missing, and life will never be the same.
Leia grew up in Council Bluffs, Iowa, as the cherished daughter of Bill and Twila Craig. She was a beloved sister to Jeanne Wyrick, Sue Rader, and Bill Craig. Her life was marked by her love for Christ and Jesus, which served as her first priority and guidance through life.
Leia met her husband, Daryl Matsumura, while serving in the Air Force, where she proudly served for four years before leaving to raise her family. Together, Leia and Daryl shared a devoted marriage of 45 years, filled with love, faith, and adventure. They built a beautiful family, raising three children: Elisha Goldfarb (married to Dave), Tawnia Blackman (married to Brandon, with their two children, Tomio and Leilani), and David Matsumura (married to Becca, with their two children, Dylan and Devon). She was also predeceased by her daughter Karen Gruber, who passed away on August 28, 2018.
Leia had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like family and welcome in her home, her warmth was always paired with a playful humor that could brighten any room. She had a passion for quilting and found immense joy in creating cherished keepsakes for her family. Her favorite place in the world was the beach, especially Polo Beach and Ho’okipa Beach, where she found peace and inspiration. She also delighted in her travels, with Paris, France, holding a special place in her heart. At home, she was rarely without the company of her beloved cat, Lily.
In honoring Leia’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Her family will scatter her ashes privately at one of her favorite beaches, ensuring her memory lives on in the places she loved most.
A devoted Christian, Leia’s life was a testament to love, devotion, and faith. One of her favorite scriptures was Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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