Leola Fay Hutchens, 93, of Fort Worth, Texas, passed peacefully from this life on November 13, 2025, resting in her bed and held in the presence and love of her daughter. As she took her final breath, she opened her eyes upon the Savior’s face—the lover of her soul. All who know and follow Jesus rest in the promise that they will one day see Him again, and see Leola’s radiant smile and her bright, twinkling eyes.
Family and friends will gather from 5 to 7 pm Tuesday, November 18, in the Great Room at Harper & Lucas, formerly Robertson Mueller Harper. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, November 19, in the Chapel at Harper & Lucas.
Born on February 6, 1932, in Fort Worth to Jim Burly Price and Flora Fay Price (née Davis), Leola grew up in the Diamond Hill neighborhood alongside her two younger brothers, Jim Virgil Price and Vernon Lee Price. From an early age, she was marked by courage, independence, and a lively spirit—qualities that stayed with her throughout her life.
At just sixteen, Leola eloped with Mervin Allen Hutchens, traveling to Weatherford, Texas, where the Justice of the Peace performed the marriage without asking for identification. The young couple shared thirteen years together. When children did not come naturally, they followed their hearts and grew their family through adoption, welcoming Todd Allen in 1961 and Shelley D’Ann in 1963.
In 1967, Leola became a single mother and returned to the corporate world with grit and determination. She joined Bell Helicopter as part of the stenographer pool, but her exceptional skill, professionalism, and integrity propelled her quickly upward. She became the executive secretary to a director—valued not only for her mastery of stenography and typing, but for her unwavering standards, her reliability, and the respect she brought to every relationship, whether in business or among friends.
In 1972, Leola married Kenneth Wayne Froberg, whom she met at Bell. She embraced her new role as a full-time wife, mother, and stepmother with wholehearted enthusiasm. She became a devoted mother not only to Todd and Shelley but also to Kenneth’s children—Larry, David, Kevin, and Ronda—nurturing all of them with equal love and commitment.
True to her nature, when she entered this new chapter, she did so with excellence. She immersed herself in learning and mastered numerous domestic skills. She became a professional-level cake decorator, creating stunning cakes for birthdays and special occasions. She learned sewing and tailoring at an expert level—producing everything from men’s suits and jeans to beautiful dresses. She took cooking classes to elevate both the nutrition and delight of every meal she prepared.
After her divorce in 1986, Leola returned to the corporate world, once again joining Bell—now Textron—where her reputation preceded her. She was swiftly placed back in the C-suite as a private executive secretary to a Vice President, a role she held until his retirement. She then spent her final decade at Textron in Employee Relations, where she became the beloved face, voice, and smile of all things fun for the employees.
Leola thrived in this role, arranging seasonal purchases and securing special ticket opportunities for Textron families—including Six Flags season passes, Texas Rangers games, movie ticket bundles, and Bass Hall performances. She delighted in meeting and connecting with people from all walks of life, radiating warmth and joy to colleagues, employees, and outside vendors alike.
Leola’s life was defined by determination, grace, deep faith, and a fierce love for her family. Her legacy lives on in those she raised, encouraged, and inspired. She will be remembered for her strength, her laughter, her remarkable skill in all she set her hands to, her dedication to those she loved, and her unshakeable belief in her Savior.
She leaves behind her children, stepchildren, extended family, friends, and countless others whose lives were touched by her kindness.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution in memory of Leola to the Preborn at give.proborn.com.
Great Room at Harper & Lucas
Chapel at Harper & Lucas
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