Robert F. Leonard, 76, of Columbia, peacefully passed away while surrounded by his family on Thursday, July 25th, 2024. Born July 27, 1947, in Pensacola, FL, he was a son of the late William and Vivian Fricker Leonard. Robert was a graduate of Pensacola Catholic High School and St. Bernard College, Class of 1969, in Cullman, AL. After graduating from college, he moved to Coloma, MI, to teach elementary school. While there, he met the love of his life, Rosemary "Rosie" Runge. Robert taught school there for five years and then sold physical therapy equipment for the remainder of his career.
Robert was a devout Catholic and lived a very spiritual and religious life. One of the highlights of serving Christ was volunteering as a youth minister at St. John Neumann Catholic Church and Transfiguration Catholic Church for over 23 years. He also supported the Catholic Church by serving in the Knights of Columbus, where he earned his Fourth Degree and numerous other rewards. Robert loved helping others, which led him to missionary work for Porch de Salomon, a nonprofit in Panajachel, Guatemala, for seven years. During this time, he and his wife Rosie were charged with directing and organizing children's activities, including Bible studies for the week they volunteered each year.
Robert had a lifelong love of playing tennis. He played all through high school and college. He continued playing competitive tennis until a few years ago when he started to play pickleball. Although Robert had many accomplishments in life, he was the proudest of his wife, children, and grandchildren. His love for his family was only topped by the love he received back from each of them.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Rosie Leonard; children, Amy Leonard (Alex Graven) of Milton, FL and Robert F. Leonard, II (Rachael) of St. Simons Island, GA; grandchildren, Windsor Leonard and Jacob Leonard as well as his siblings, William A. Leonard (Nancy) of Dallas, TX, Frank M. Leonard, (Barbara) of Tallahassee, FL, and Vivian C. Spencer (Kent) of Pensacola, FL. |