Sallie Jane Leaf

Sallie Jane Leaf, born on August 14, 1946, in Claremore, Oklahoma, peacefully passed away on May 29, 2025, in Grove, Oklahoma. A dedicated member of her community and beloved by many, Sallie leaves behind a legacy woven through her caring spirit and profound love for her family.

Sallie's early years were spent in Wyandotte,OK where she would later graduate from Wyandotte High School. She proudly served in the Army, during which time she met her husband, Patrick Leaf, while stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This fortuitous meeting marked the beginning of a partnership that would last a lifetime.

Throughout her career, Sallie made significant contributions at the Mabelle Phone Company in both Colorado Springs and Spokane, and later served as a Clerk for the Seneca Cayuga Tribal Claims. Her dedication to her work was only rivaled by her devotion to her family and her tribal heritage, of which she was immensely proud. Sallie was active in the Seneca Cayuga ceremonies, embodying the values and traditions of her ancestors.

For twelve years, she lived throughout Alaska, embracing the wild beauty and unique culture of the state, before eventually returning to Oklahoma to be closer to her family. Her legacy is one of love and support, as she dedicated her skills as a seamstress to create clothing not only for her family but also for friends and anyone in need, showcasing her generous nature.

Sallie is survived by her loving husband, Patrick Leaf, her daughter, Darnell Crosby-Schneider and husband Doug, as well as numerous grandchildren: Leighton Quapaw, Avary Adams, Delaney Crosby-Schneider, Deverie Rhinehouse, Blake Leaf, Berrick Leaf, Drysta Crosby-Schneider, Sindey Leaf, and cherished great-grandchildren, Aviaunna Rhinehouse, Azariyah Rhinehouse, and Samson Adams, brother Tommy Whtietree, sister Lenora Sparks, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She now rejoins her beloved family members who preceded her in death, including her father, Ogal Whitetree; mother, Clara Jane (Schrimscher) Whitetree; son Patrick Leaf; daughter Jordan Leaf Adams, and sisters, Hazel Wallace, Christine Stanger, Mary Whitetree, and Margaret Whitetree; as well as brothers, Moses Whiteagle, Gordon Whitetree, Jerry Whitetree, Terry Whitetree, and Clifton Whitetree.

A traditional wake will be held from 4:30 pm, June 1, 2025 to 4:30 pm,  June 2, 2025, at the Seneca-Cayuga Tribe Community building in Grove, Oklahoma.

Sallie's warmth and kindness will be missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.