James Ray Leonard

James Ray Leonard, 85, passed away in his Cedar Springs home Thurday, July 23, 2026. Jim was born in Filley, MO on Feb. 9, 1941 to his parents, Ray and Hazel Leonard. Jim graduated from El Dorado Springs High School as a proud member of the class of 1958. Jim married his high school sweetie, Ruth Mooney in 1962. Together they built a beautiful life, traveling to all 50 states, making many quilts and raising two children. Jim often jokingly referred to himself as the “unofficial mayor of Old Cedar Springs.”

Jim also proudly served his country, being stationed overseas in Germany for three years. Jim was an avid gardener who loved nature. He could identify any tree, plant, flower and bird. He was a dedicated active member of the Clintonville Masonic Lodge, which was a very important part of his life. In event years, Jim’s favorite pastime was making quilts by hand and donating them to local nursing homes. Recently, he was thrilled to have met and held his new great grandson Everett Ray, a fifth generation “Ray.”

Preceding Jim in death were his parents; sister, Mary Howerton; daughter, Brenda Compton; and two grandbabies.

Survivors include wife, Ruth Leonard; son and daughter-in-law, David and Tandi Leonard; son-in-law, James Compton; grandchildren: Dustyn(Maggie) Compton, Levi Compton, Nick Compton, Landon(Sammie) Leonard; great-grandchildren: Lyllian, Jaymes, Aymelia, Jaxsyn and Ellayne Compton, and Everett Leonard, along with nieces, nephews and many friends.

Services for James will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.blandhackleman.com.