Leonna L. May

Leonna L. May (née Vaughn), born on July 21, 1959, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on July 24, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and a deep well of love for her family and community.

Leonna's journey began in the warmth of her Tennessee upbringing, where her spirited nature took root. She was a woman known for her candor—never one to sugarcoat her words, but always to speak from the heart. Those who knew Leonna understood that her straightforwardness was matched only by her deep care for those she loved. Her unique blend of feistiness and compassion endeared her to family and friends alike.

As a homemaker, Leonna’s influence was perhaps at its greatest. She was an exceptional baker, and her Pineapple Dream Cake became something of family legend. This treasured recipe was nearly lost—but returned to family gatherings after Leonna resurrected the recipe to everyone's delight. One of many examples of her deep connections to family tradition and her own sense of the extraordinary.

Leonna found joy in simple pleasures and pastimes. She was especially fond of Disney movies, with a special affection for "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory." The tales of perseverance and belonging resonated with her. She was also fascinated by the enduring story of the Titanic, reflecting her lifelong curiosity and appreciation for history.

Life brought Leonna countless joys, but also profound sorrows. The untimely death of her son David, taken by a drunk driver, left her heartbroken. In time, Leonna faced further grief as her husband Martin Ward battled cancer and passed away. In the darkest periods of her life, Leonna sought solace through a survivor's support group, where she met Andrew J. May. Shared experiences of loss kindled a bond between them; together, they learned to heal and to love again. Their union was a source of renewed happiness, and when they finally shared their news with Leonna’s children, it was met with enthusiasm and warmth—a testament to the affection and respect she inspired in her family.

Leonna is survived by her beloved husband, Andrew J. May; her daughters, Dia (Tong) Srichareon, Summear Freeman, and Heather (Junior) Hessen; her son, Martin "Eli" (Michelle) Ward; her brother, Charles Vaughn; her sister, Tisha Vaughn; her sister-in-law, Lori (Charles) Pierce; and twenty-four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; as well as multiple nieces and nephews whose lives she touched with her wisdom and wit.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Martin Ward, and her son, David Ward, her father, Charles Vaughn, Sr., and her mother, Alice Vaughn. Though their loss weighed heavily on Leonna, the depth of her love for her family never wavered.

Family and friends are invited to honor Leonna’s life at a memorial service with dates to be announced. The Celebration of Life will be held at the Keystone Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 11257 Temple Drive in Carmel, Indiana. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers that people instead donate to the Ronald McDonald House, the Otis Bowen House for Veterans, or the Helping Families and Veterans Organization. 

Leonna L. May will be remembered for her warmth, her boundless heart, her culinary gifts, and the indelible impact she made on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit remains with those she loved, carried forward in cherished memories and shared stories.