Rocky Mount –

Lawrence Leonard, Jr., age 78, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 11, 2022 at his home with his family by his side. His journey began on May 11, 1944 in Burke County as the oldest son born to Mack and Azalie Buff Leonard, both of whom preceded him in death.

Lawrence was a proud veteran, having served his country honorably in the US Army during the Vietnam War era. He later retired from Consolidated Diesel Company (now Cummins, Inc.) following a successful career spanning two decades. He enjoyed playing golf at Northgreen Country Club and pulling for the UNC Tarheels and Atlanta Braves.

Together with Judy, they founded New Life Christian Academy in Rocky Mount, NC in August 2012. He was instrumental in the daily operations of the school, including but not limited to, happily serving in the cafeteria as well as any capacity needed.

Most of all, Lawrence knew his Lord as his personal savior. And he wanted the same for his family and friends. He spent much of his life looking for ways to serve and reflect Jesus. He was a Chairman of Deacons at Parkwood Baptist Church and an Honorary Deacon at NorthSide Church, as well as Sunday school teacher in his earlier years. He was deeply devoted to his family and loved by many.

Lawrence is leaving a lifetime of wonderful memories for his loving family including his wife of forty-one years, Judy Leonard; sons, Roger "Nick" Leonard (Dawn) of Sunset Beach, Marshall Leonard of Augusta, GA, and Keith Leonard (Wendy) of Rocky Mount; brother, Dennis Leonard (Karen) of Morganton; nephew, Clay Leonard (Kelly) of Momeyer and nieces, Emily Leonard Garrison (Ryan) and Cari Bridges (Aaron), all of Morganton. Lawrence was especially proud of his grandchildren, Ani and Jillian Leonard, Mack Leonard, Specialist - US Army (Toneshia) and Brock Leonard, and Nicolas, Noah, and Landon Leonard; step-grandchildren, Sydney & Drew Willis; and looking forward to the arrival of his first great-granddaughter, due in April 2023.

A service with military honors will be held Saturday, December 17, 2022, at 3:00PM at Parkwood Baptist Church, 1731 Hunter Hill Rd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southside Baptist church Mission Team. Please make payments payable to: Southside Baptist Church, 4948 Carter Rd, Elm City, NC 28722 in Memory of Lawrence Leonard.