Joseph William Leonard

Joseph William Leonard of Sanford, Fl passed away to his eternal home with Jesus on December 29, 2023. He was born in Dawson, GA on October 24, 1951 to father James Evans Leonard and mother Katherine Harkey Leonard. Joe was predeceased by his parents as well as his brother James Edward Leonard and stepsister Linda Fredricks. He is survived by his sister Dianne Leonard Olah and stepsister Penny Woodward.

On April 13, 1970 Joe married the love of his life who he is survived by Lois Whitten Leonard. They spent 53 years growing, loving, and becoming one. This was not always easy as he was one of the toughest, most bullheaded, his way or no way, not a man of many loving words type. However he was hard working, honest, compassionate, and the most loving man in his own way. There was never a question of his love if he loved you though it was rarely spoken. Joe was a Jack of all trades and had a knack for antiquing which provided for his family. He could turn a .10c piece of glass into a $100. Due to the love Joe and Lois shared they had 3 children. He is survived by his son Joseph “Scooter” Leonard, daughter-in-law Laura Leonard, daughter Shannon “Shay” Leonard-Cotnoir, son-in-law Jamie Cotnoir, daughter Lisa Leonard, and son-in-law Chris Tatum.

Joe was not only the best father but he was the most amazing Papa to his grandbabies. Not only was he amazing to his biological grandbabies but he was also amazing to his bonus grandbabies. Every child was spoiled with love and candy by Papa. He is survived by 7 grandchildren Jared, Stephen, Gage, Fallyn, Maci, Layton, and Zane. He also had 3 great grandchildren Brianna, Joseph, and Neveah. And lastly his bonus grandchildren Mickayla, Divine, Sneakin Deacon, Jayde, Sadie, Leilani, Kiel, and Kristoff. Joe is also survived by 15 nieces and nephews.

The viewing will be held Friday night January 5, 2024 at Ganderson Brothers Mortuary, 710 Lexington Green Lane, Sanford, Fl 32771 from 5-7pm.

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024 aRiverwalk Church of God, 801 W 22nd Street, Sanford, Fl 32771 at 2pm followed by a reception in the gym.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Give Kids the World Village at www.gktw.org.