Mildred Lee Deg

Mildred Lee Deg, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, May 9, 2025. She was born Mildred Lee Rodriguez on November 30, 1939, in Oakdale, Louisiana, to Branch Earl Rodriguez and Vera Inez Johnson. Raised in a close-knit Christian family with strong values, Mildred shared her childhood with her siblings: Raymond, Fred, Arita, Leamon, Janice, Barbara, and Darrell.

Mildred met the love of her life, Leo Allen Deg, while he was stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana. Their paths crossed at church, where they were brought together by their shared faith in God. The couple married on November 8, 1957, in Oakdale, Louisiana. Following Leo’s honorable service in the U.S. Army, the couple settled in Yakima, Washington, before planting roots in The Dalles, Oregon, in 1961. It was in The Dalles, where Mildred and Leo built their dream home, brick by brick, in 1962.

A strong Christian woman, Mildred was an active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church. She cherished time spent with her family, enjoyed gardening, and had a love for shopping. Her cooking became a family treasure, and her unwavering kindness made her a pillar in her community.

Mildred dedicated 20 years to working for the local school district before retiring. More than anything, she found joy in being of service to her family and church. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, pouring love and care into every moment she spent with them.

She is survived by her children: Patti Timmer, Penni Hardin (husband Steve), and son Leo Deg Jr. Mildred’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Heather Ornelas, John Timmer (wife Brooke), Brandon Deg, Natasha Deg, Tyler York (wife Sara), Jonathan Hardin, Jillian Blanco; and her great-grandchildren: Natalie, Eric, and Alyssa Ornelas, Jaxon and Elliette Timmer, Clayton Miller, Henry and Alexander York. Mildred was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Leo, and her son-in-law, Tim Timmer.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mildred’s life at Spencer, Libby & Powell Funeral Home on Thursday, May 15, with a viewing from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will be held at Emmanuel Baptist Church at 1:00 PM.

Mildred will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her loving spirit, and her endless devotion to her family and church. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.