Inducted: October 30, 1991
Leta M. Gordon has spent her life doing things for others, a selfless dedication that has helped the agricultural community in innumerable ways.
Mrs. Gordon was born on a farm east of Louisville, the daughter of George and Margaret Warnock. She attended S.S. No. 3, Chatham Township, before three years at Chatham Collegiate Institute and a year of Special Commercial training at Chatham Vocational School.
After her marriage to Douglas A. Gordon, she moved to another Chatham Township farm on Highway 2, a mile from the Warnock farm.
From the first, Mrs. Gordon was involved in organizations dedicated to improving life for farm folk of all ages. She joined the Kent Bridge Women's Institute in 1942, and in almost a half century as a member, she has served for 42 years as branch Secretary, and has held 11 other offices.
Mrs. Gordon's interest in the future of farming found practical expression in her work as a 4-H Homemaking Club leader for more than 20 years, and for 42 projects. She was instrumental in getting a primary and junior "Agriculture in the Classroom" kit for circulation in Kent schools. At the adult level, she has conducted senior training schools for Women's Institute members and other interested women.
Her dedication to others has been exemplified in her work at Thamesview Lodge, the Kent County home for senior citizens. She was not only a charter member of the Thamesview Lodge Auxiliary, and the manager of the Tuck Shop, but she prepared treats for the 200 to 250 residents on all holidays.
Mrs. Gordon has been an active member of Holy Trinity Anglican Church; as a Sunday School teacher for 20 years, a member of the Altar Chapter, of the "Pie Ladies," and as a member of the Official Board.
It has been said of Mrs. Gordon that "she has spent her adult life dedicated to her family and to the service of others."
"She has meant the world to many people who would otherwise have been forgotten."