January 14, 1951 – March 4, 2022
Mr. William H. Leonard, Jr., 71, entered eternal rest on March 4, 2022, at Southside Medical Center in Petersburg, Virginia. William was born on January 14, 1951, in Nash County, North Carolina to his parents, the late William H. Leonard, Sr. and Carrie Stewart. During this lifetime, he had the chance to experience love in which he married the late Patricia Leonard. After her passing, he found love again with is life-long partner Porn Dupree. He was a devoted husband and partner, adored son, respected brother and a cherished uncle and friend to many near and far.
William was known for his bright smile, witty sense of humor, and his ability to drive anything with wheels. He was the oldest of six brothers and three sisters. He is fondly remembered by his siblings for his dedication to hard work, being a sharp dresser and being meticulous about keeping his cars clean. But he was most known for his independence and his passion for chasing the Big One (the lottery). His favorite lottery numbers were 1011, 1702, and 1951. William possessed a smile that would make you want to smile and always had a way with words. At the end of his conversations, it was always thought-provoking.
William graduated from Petersburg High School in 1970. He had a career in transportation and logistics. He held a commercial driver’s license which allowed him to drive eighteen-wheeler trucks. He was a Bus Driver for the Metro in Washington, DC and Petersburg, Virginia for many years. He also worked over 17 years at Walter Reed Medical Center.
William enjoyed serving the Temple located at 711 Halifax Street, Petersburg, Virginia. He also enjoyed baseball, spending time with family, and playing the lottery.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Reva Johnson (Sam).
He is survived by his daughter, Tracy Ellis (Marcus); his siblings, Silas E. Leonard, Johnny Ray Leonard (or Najee Wallyyuddin Abdullah), Linda Faye Johnson (Michael), George Leonard, Sr., Edward Leonard, Anthony Leonard, and Gretchen Branch; aunts, Dorthy Allen and Esther Marshall (Wilbert); and uncle, George Hines. He also leaves behind a grandson and great-granddaughter and a host of nieces and nephews.
William was especially grateful for the love and care are given to him by his devoted siblings who loved and cherished for him in their many different ways. William will be eternally grateful for all they have done!
Special gratitude for his spiritual leader “The Monk” for his guidance and support throughout his spiritual journey.
Services were held 1:00 P.M., Saturday, March 12, 2022 at the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Linda Johnson, eulogist.