Tarboro –

Spencer Shelton "Pops" Leonard, Sr., age 85, passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Scotland Manor Nursing Home in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. His journey began on June 7, 1938 in Franklin County as one of eight children born to John Weldon and Carrie Wood Leonard. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of fifty-six years, Barbara Jean Leonard; two sisters and five brothers.

He leaves behind a lifetime of memories for his children, Donnie "Donna" Mixon, Jean Pittman (Lindy), all of Rocky Mount, James "Jimbo" Martin (Faith), Spencer Leonard, Jr. (Dina), all of Tarboro, Christina Hawkins of Rocky Mount, Curtis Leonard of Bethel, Donnie Leonard of Tarboro, William Leonard, Zachary Leonard and Christopher Leonard, all of Pinetops. He will also be missed by many friends and other extended relatives.

Pops was proud of and adored his grandchildren, Spencer "JP" Luper, Kelly Skorupski, James Martin, Ashley Sewell, Curtis Nichols, Spencer "Trey" Leonard, III, Tony Mendoza, Taylor Cruz, David Davis, Crystal Arrington, Cadence Hawkins and Caleb Hawkins and seventeen great-grandchildren.

Pops was a loving father and father figure to hundreds of children who came to know him through the foster system. Each child held a place in his heart as if they were his own blood; he went above and beyond his fatherly duties for each one. He was a helping hand to those in need and welcomed anyone with open arms into his home for a safe place to stay. Through his big heart and his lovable, helpful nature, Pops never met a stranger. He will be missed for his quick wit, jokes and silly nicknames, but more importantly for his love and compassion for others.

The family will host a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 2:00PM at His Vision Ministry, 1903 Anaconda Rd Tarboro NC, with Pastor Jay Thompson officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Pop's family would like to extend their gratitude and appreciation to his caretakers, Jackie Holland and Donnie Leonard and special friends, Frankie Gallinoto, Timmy Ruffin and David Moore.