Steven “Steve” J. Leonard

He served in the US Navy from 1962-1968 with service in Vietnam and Middle East Crisis. Following his dedicated service, Steve attended Western Carolina University where he received his BS in Business Administration. He was employed by several different banks and institutions in WNC for 35 years. Steve’s dedication to his work and kindness to all made him highly respected among his colleagues. He later worked with his long-time friend, Lawrence Braxton, in the NC Student and Athletic Insurance business for 10 years before his retirement in 2017.

Steve is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Lynda Leatherwood Leonard; daughter, Catherine Leonard (Erik Ofeely) of Greensboro, NC and son, Steven Wesley Leonard (Julie) and grandsons, Isaac and Sam Leonard of Willow Springs, NC. Two brothers- Tony Leonard, Sr. of Archdale , NC and Bill Leonard (Lisa) of Thomasville, NC and several nieces and nephews.

Steve had a wonderful kind and caring spirit and always had a positive attitude. He was a wonderful husband, Dad and Papa and was much loved by his family and will be deeply missed.

He served on many civic clubs including the Optimist Club of Asheville and Waynesville; a charter member of Waynesville Sunrise Rotary Club established in 1987 and served as its Treasurer for 15 years. He was a member of the Salvation Army Advisory Board of Waynesville for 10 years. Served as a Member and Chairman of Town of Waynesville Planning Board for three years. (1999-2001)

He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Waynesville and served in many different capacities within the church including treasurer of the UM Men, the Faith Sunday School Class, an Usher and on the Leadership Team of the church.

Steve enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping, grouse hunting and trout fishing. He also enjoyed traveling to many different areas of the US especially the National Parks with his wife and special friends, Steve and Ann Ijames of Franklinton, NC.

The family wishes to thank all the caregivers at Spring Arbor of Greensboro and Beacon Place Hospice Center for their kindness and care.