In Loving Memory

Leah Catherine Ploutz, 34, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island passed on to her spiritual life on Monday March 23, 2015 after a heroic 2 ½ year battle with colon cancer. She was a beloved mother to Elleanah (Elly), age 6, and Drew, age 3, and wife to Bryan David Ploutz. Leah is also survived by her parents Catherine Lindsey Braman and Ret. Col. James Easton Braman, and brothers Benjamin James Braman, Daniel Patrick Braman, sister Maria Linda Braman, and stepmother Teresa Ann Braman of Tucson Arizona, numerous cousins, and large extended family.

Leah was born in Newport, RI and was raised in Tucson, Arizona. Leah lived with cousins and worked in RI during the summer.  She graduated from Mountain View High school in Tucson in 1998 and earned her Bachelor's degree in Marketing and Business from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff in 2001. Leah moved back to Rhode Island and worked as a financial analyst at SEA Corp in Middletown, RI. She earned her Master's degree in Human Resources from Salve Regina University in Newport.

Leah lived a vibrant and active life. She enjoyed time outdoors, played soccer and volleyball, was an avid runner, passionate photographer and loved to bake. She was an inspiration to her friends, and an indomitable spirit who cared for everyone she knew.  Leah will be deeply missed.

While Leah and her family are members of the Fall River Church of Christ, a one hour memorial service followed by a reception and celebration of her life will be held on Friday March 27 from 10:30am to 2pm at The Atlantic Beach Club, 55 Purgatory Road, Middletown, RI with overflow parking at Easton’s Beach.

Calling hours will be held Thursday March 26 from 4pm to 8pm at O’Neil-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring Street, Newport, RI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Elleanah and Drew Ploutz Trust Fund.

Checks made out to
Elleanah and Drew Ploutz Trust Fund
and mailed to:
151 Carriage Drive
Portsmouth, RI 02871


We are out of words to describe the loss we are feeling, but deeply appreciate all the kind words we receive during this difficult time.