The world has lost a beloved mother.

We are sad to announce that after an exceptional life of 99 years Mildred Evelyn Lea (Nee Tebelman) died on September 23rd,2026. In her last moments she was surrounded with the love and gratitude of her family, including sons, Frank and David Lea of Covington and daughter, Nancy O’Brien (Mark Patterson) of Independence. She is survived by four grandchildren: Aaron, Nathan, Ethan and Marie and a great grandchild.

Born on March 12, 1927 to Frederick John “Fritz” Tebelman and Mary Jane (Vastine) Tebelman she was the older sister of the late Helen Lipscomb, Vera Sturgeon and Howard Tebelman. Millie, as she was known, was a devoted wife and partner and blessed with her marriage of 53 years to Elmer Lea, deceased in 1997.

She was deeply dedicated to her family, actively participating in her children’s school and youth events. Her commitment was recognized when she received a national lifetime PTA membership through Taylor Mill Elementary School. In her younger years she very actively participated in community and church events and held offices in various organizations.

Always a lady, she was quite the homemaker as well. Millie, who was among the first graduates of Simon Kenton High School in 1944, was also an influential mentor to young women and frequently advised “you can achieve and be anything you want.”

She was energetic, and before retiring assisted with admissions and coordinating social activities for residents at the former Rosedale Manor in Covington…positions she truly enjoyed!

Mille will be missed tremendously. She will forever be remembered for the sacrifices she made for and the unwavering support of her family with the spirit of a mother’s love.

Although we feel profound sorrow that her journey has ended, we are grateful for all the years we were blessed to share with her and for the loving energy she will continue to surround us with until we reunite with her and our dad once more.

Our family thanks those who knew her well for sharing her life and recognizes the remarkable staffs at Rosedale Green HH8 and St Elizabeth Hospice.

In tribute to her cherished life, a funeral service is scheduled for 12 Noon Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at SWINDLER & CURRIN FUNERAL HOME, LATONIA, with visitation from 10-12pm. Burial Floral Hills Cemetery. Memorial gifts can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Cincinnati Chapter;https://Alzheimer's Association >Cincinnati.