Cleta Sue Savage

Cleta Sue Savage, was 73 years old and passed away on August 23, 2026. She was born on March 21, 1953, in Peoria, Kansas, to William Silas Waits and Jodie Hinson Waits. Cleta’s life was rooted in family, love, and connection, and she will be remembered for her warmth, devotion, and joyful spirit. Cleta shared 34 years of marriage with her late husband, David Savage. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, travel, and adventure. She was a loving mother to Chance Gourd and his wife, Cindy, and to Ashley Bray and her husband, Trent. She was a proud and devoted Nana to Cobe, Connor, Carson, and Colton Gourd. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Neigburg, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Donna Taylor; her brother, Bryan Waits; and her beloved husband, David. Cleta retired from ConocoPhillips in 2015 after 30 years of dedicated service. It was there that she met David, beginning a partnership that would span decades and create countless cherished memories. Family was always at the center of Cleta’s heart. She loved being Nana and treasured every opportunity to make memories with her grandchildren, whether through family trips to Silver Dollar City, games, or everyday adventures. She shared a special bond with her daughter, Ashley, and deeply valued the trips, conversations, and meaningful moments they experienced together. Cleta was someone her family could always depend on. She never hesitated to travel to Texas to help care for her grandchildren when they were sick or injured, and she longed to be by Ashley’s side during her transplant, offering the steadfast love and support only a mother can provide. Thanksgiving was one of Cleta’s favorite holidays. She loved gathering family around her table, filling the room with laughter, stories, and the aroma of her famous chicken noodle soup with homemade noodles, a meal that became a treasured family tradition. Cleta also loved to travel. She and David enjoyed riding motorcycles, participating in Honda Gold Wing club trips, and exploring new places all over the world with family and friends. She had a passion for dancing and especially enjoyed line dancing and square dancing with David. Cleta will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Her family will forever remember her adventurous spirit, unwavering devotion to those she loved, and the joy she found in being Nana. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

Cleta Sue Savage

March 21, 1953 - August 23, 2026