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About Leland Maples

Leland Maples (1934 - 2017) ODESSA, TX - Leland Maples, age 82, passed away June 14, 2017. He was born in Coleman, Texas, October 8, 1934 to Moses and Viola Maples.  He was a graduate of Howard Payne University. Leland was also very involved in his community. He was very active in the High Noon Optimist, Odessa Chamber of Commerce's Sports Committee and Odessa Track Club.  He taught a Bible study in the Big Spring Federal Prison for six years. He was co-founder of LOOPS (Loved Ones of Prisoners) and ministered at the Ector County Jail, Turning Point, all three hallway houses in addition to the many other classes he taught. He and wife, Linda, also ministered to local children of prisoners at Christmas through the Prison Fellowship Angel Tree program. They began a support group for the families of prisoners in Midland and Odessa, to meet the needs of the families socially and spiritually. During this time, Leland served two unprecedented three year terms as lay director for the Texas Baptist Men's Criminal Justice Division. The REC-Room (Re-Entry Chapel) was established by him to win souls for the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved the Lord and worked tirelessly every day to "be about my Father's business". He will be missed by so many for so many different reasons.  His book, "Keep Looking Up!" was published in October, 2015. It is a compilation of all of his articles from the early 90's to the present time from the LOOPS newsletter, "Reflections". Leland was a blessing to all and we have enjoyed hosting a blog of his Keep Looking Up articles as well as his Rec Room services.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LOOPS, PO Box 14953, Odessa, Texas 79768.