Edward Henry Leonard (June 10, 1933-June 14, 2024) was born to John and Beatrice Leonard in Rockford, Alabama.  He confessed Christ at an early age.  He attended Calvary Presbyterian Church for several years as well as University Circle United Methodist Church (formerly First United Methodist Church) until his health began to fail.

Edward attended Coosa County Schools and graduated with honors.  He attended Alabama A&M where he majored in Horticultural Science.  Two years into his academic journey, Edward was drafted to serve in the United States Army during the Korean War Conflict.  Edward dutifully served his country for two years as a member of the Signal Corps.  Upon being honorably discharged, Edward returned to Alabama A&M where he completed his college degree.

While at Alabama A&M, Edward met the love of his life Theresa Burks.  They graduated together in May of 1958 and were married on December 26, 1958.  To this union they were blessed with three children: Adrienne, Bryan and Steven.

After leaving Alabama, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio.  Edward was employed by Cleveland Public Schools starting in 1959 and worked for the school district in various capacities until his retirement in June of 1993.

Edward was an avid golfer and bowler, a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, and a member of Anthropos Incorporated, a local civic and social men’s club.  Edward was a proud alumnus of Alabama A&M and was very active in the Cleveland Chapter.

Edward was in the care of Montefiore Nursing Home for the last 5 yrs.  He cultivated strong relationships with everyone he encountered.  He and the family are truly grateful for the care he received.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Eula Mitchell and his brothers, Robert and William Leonard.

Edward is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mattie Theresa (Terry), his daughter Adrienne (Art Busby), Bryan (Patricia) and Steven (Cheryl), a host of nieces, nephews and many who loved him.

Humbly submitted,

The Family