Saltville, Va.

Leona Christine Smith Puckett, 85, of Saltville, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on August 30, 1939, Leona lived a life filled with faith, joy, and deep devotion to her family. She was the cherished daughter of Dora Minton Smith and Charles T. Smith and was raised in a loving, lively household alongside her many siblings. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Arlen Puckett; her parents; siblings Anne Chapman, Malcolm Smith, Brad Smith, Archie Smith, and Stanley Smith; her children Kelly Puckett and Karen Heldreth; and her granddaughter Beth Mills.

Leona is survived by her devoted children Mark Puckett and Kim Puckett; her grandchildren Jennifer Cregger, Katie Puckett, Kristen Halsey (Zack Halsey), and Allyson Puckett; and her great-grandchildren Colton Doane, Dalton Doane, Austin Call, Samuel Halsey, and Arlyn Halsey — each of whom were blessed by her warmth, strength, and unwavering love.

Leona was known for her joyful, spirited nature. She loved the Lord with all her heart, and her faith was the foundation of everything she did. She cherished her family fiercely, delighted in a home-cooked meal, and was never one to pass up a chance to sing or dance. Her voice often filled the room with hymns or laughter, and her happiness was beautifully contagious.

She leaves behind a legacy of deep faith, unconditional love, and joyful living. To know Leona was to be welcomed, to feel seen, and to be loved without measure. Her memory will live on in every song sung around a kitchen table, every prayer whispered with hope, and every moment shared in love.

Funeral services for Leona Christine Puckett will be held at 12:00 noon on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Christian Faith Ministries in Saltville, Va. with Pastor Zack Halsey officiating.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 prior to the service.  Burial will follow at Mount Rose Cemetery in Glade Spring, Va.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Leona Christine Smith Puckett.