Leona Arletta Lis

Leona Arletta Lis, lovingly known as Arletta, passed away on April 21, 2026 after a long illness. She was 90 years old.

Arletta was born on January 20, 1936, in Abilene, Texas. Her parents were Perry and Flosie Copeland. She and her twin sister Corretta Brown grew up with their eight sisters and one brother in a small country home. She attended McMurray College and attained her associate degree in acounting. It was a foundation that reflected the intelligence and determination she carried throughout her entire life.

Arletta endured 27 years of Air Force life as a military spouse travelling alongside her husband, Chief Master Sergeant (Retired) James Lis and their family. Their journey took them to several locations which included Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Travis Air Force Base, California, Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, and finally Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. She embraced every move with grace and resilience. She raised two wonderful children, James Jessie and Rikki Lynn, creating a warm and steady home no matter where the Air Force sent them. A major milestone for Arletta was witness to and at times being part of the design, development, production, and delivery of the C-17A Globemaster III to the United States Air Force over a remarkable 14-year journey.

Those who knew Arletta would tell you she was sincere, funny, and deeply intelligent. She had sharp wit and genuine warmth that made people feel at ease. She loved gardening and could often be found tending to her plants and flowers. She had a passion for life, enjoyed traveling, and a deep affection for the beach and ocean. She also enjoyed her boys in fur, Sam, Teddy, and Ollie who brought her endless joy.

Arletta is survived by her husband of 55 years, James Lis; her son James Jessie Lis; her daughter Rikki Lynn Wherle; her granddaughter Nicole Warner, her grandson Jeremy Wherle; and her great granddaughter, Kailey Stickney. She leaves behind a family who cherished her and will carry her memory forward with love.

A woman of deep spiritual faith, Arletta found comfort and strength in Christian beliefs throughout her life. Her family takes solace in knowing she is at peace in the arms of her Lord.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd., Abilene, TX. Memorial Services will be held at 10:00a.m., Friday, May 15, 2026 at Hamil Family Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Hawley Texas.

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”