Leisa Ann Baker, a fiercely independent, loving mother, wife, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully after an 11-year battle with cancer. She was 61 years old.
Born on July 1, 1963, in Trenton, Missouri, to Bobby and Patty Kriewitz, Leisa brought light, laughter and love to everyone around her. In 1980, she married Gary May and welcomed two daughters, Amy and Cassie. On Nov. 18, 1995, she married the one who would truly fulfill his vows of in sickness and in health, Keith, who also eventually became her full-time caregiver. Together they raised their daughter Mikayla, while running a business, The Glass Depot, in Houston, Missouri. They were baptized together at Dogs Bluff by Brother Ed Hamilton. Leisa’s family was the center of her world, and she found endless joy in her grandchildren — Case, Kailee and Bryson — who brought her immense pride and happiness.
A caregiver at heart, Leisa had a special gift for helping others. She found purpose in caring for the elderly, cleaning and organizing their homes, and bringing peace and order into their lives. Her passion for helping others extended beyond her work, she was always there for her loved ones, and enjoyed helping her sister with organizing antiques, going to auctions or taking spontaneous trips to Texas and North Missouri to visit her sisters and mom.
Even as cancer began to limit her independence, Leisa’s spirit remained unshakable. She spent many cherished hours at the shop with her dear friend, who was like a daughter, Nikki, filling her days with laughter, love, dogs and the joy of companionship. Leisa adored taking long rides, driving fast and participating in parades and car shows with their classic cars she and Keith shared. She never missed a chance to celebrate life’s moments — big or small.
Leisa was known for making birthdays extra special, her love of flowers and gardening, and for her enthusiasm around the holidays, particularly when it came to decorating her huge Christmas tree. Her smile lit up every room she entered, and her giggle — so full of life and joy — will be deeply missed.
Leisa’s strength, determination and grace throughout her battle with cancer were truly remarkable. She never lost her smile, her kindness or her unwavering love for her family and friends. Her legacy is one of compassion, courage and an unbreakable spirit.
Leisa is preceded in death by her father, Robert “Bobby” Kriewitz and brother-in-law, Kenny Berry.
She is survived by her husband, Keith; daughters, Amy (Tim) of Marshfield, Missouri, Cassie of Houston and Mikayla (Christian) of Humansville, Missouri; grandchildren, Case, Kailee and Bryson; mother, Patty; sisters, Debbie of Trenton, Missouri, Ronda (Kent) of Alford, Texas, Laura (John) of Chillicothe, Missouri; nieces, Tisha and Ashleigh; nephews, Riley, Justin and Colby; along with countless friends who loved her dearly.
A visitation for Leisa will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Monday June 9, 2025, at Evans Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow with Pastor Jimmy Swindell officiating. Interment is at Hickory Ridge Cemetery. Pallbearers are Tim Mosley, Dave Hatton, Christian Kellison, Case Steinbach, Robert Barnhart and Justin Rogers. Honorary pallbearers are Dalton Hatton and Riley Rogers. Arrangements entrusted to Evans Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.
