Leta Mangis

Aletta Large Mangis, 88, a lifelong resident of Knox City, Texas, passed away Monday, March 17, 2025. Services will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Knox City Cemetery under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Homes, Knox City.

Aletta was born on October 24, 1936, to Pruitt and Edna Large.  Leta, as most called her, married Oscar Mangis, Jr. on December 24, 1955, and they were happily married for 65 years. She was a member of the Knox City Church of Christ.

She is survived by son Tommy Mangis; daughter Sherry Jackson and husband Sammy, who she always treated as a son; grandson, Wesley Jackson; two granddaughters, Sherrill Hong and husband Kenny, and Shannon Brown and husband Chad; great grandchildren Wyatt, Kenzie, KJ, Aedyn, Tye, Maeci, and Madi.

Leta worked for Dr. Howell for a brief time and spent many years selling Mary Kay cosmetics out of her home. She and Oscar also operated a craft store called the Whittle and Paint Shop where she displayed her creativity and artistic nature.

Leta spent her free time reading the Bible, working puzzles, crocheting, sewing, cooking, and gardening. She found joy in caring for her family, especially taking care of her grandchildren in the summers when they were kids. Her door was always open, and she loved visiting with friends.

Leta loved the Lord and helped the Church in many ways. She lived a beautiful Christian life, setting an example for her children and grandchildren to do the same.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Oscar Mangis, Jr. and her parents Pruitt and Edna Large.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.smithfamilyfh.com.