Jimmy Dale Leonard, 86, of Tarkington Prairie, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born March 21, 1939, in Tupelo, Ark., to Roy Leonard and Pearl Pearrow Leonard, Jimmy grew up in the close-knit community of Tupelo before making his way to Texas, where he built a life full of love, laughter, and stories. He and his late wife of 43 years, Betty Jo, made their home in LaPorte before settling in Tarkington, where Jimmy spent the last 30 years.
A proud member of the Masonic Lodge #857 in LaPorte and a retiree of Iron Workers Local 84, Jimmy was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and endless sense of humor. He had a true passion for gardening, particularly growing vegetables and watermelons—not for sale, but to give away to friends and neighbors. It brought him joy to share the fruits of his labor.
Jimmy was a man of many interests. He loved hunting, riding 4-wheelers, cooking, and gathering for games of Rummy and dominoes. He was famous for his beans, hot water cornbread, and barbeque beans, though he never passed up a good seafood meal at Pappas Seafood. A devoted Arkansas Razorbacks fan, he also held onto a youthful dream of flying, fascinated by planes and the freedom of the skies.
Those who knew Jimmy will remember his love for telling jokes and stories, his clever poetry, and his talent for stirring up mischief in the best kind of way. He was a professional instigator with a heart of gold and a smile that could light up a room.
Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty Jo Leonard; siblings R.L. Leonard, Nina Wright, Virgil Leonard, Buford Leonard, and Francis Galli; and his son-in-law, Pete De La Garza.
He is survived by his children, Robert Leonard and wife Laurie, and Jo Jie De La Garza; grandchildren, Candi Leonard, Robert Leonard and wife Nicole, and Tayler De La Garza; and great-grandchildren, Westin Leonard, Mac Leonard, and Addi Leonard.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 10 to 11 a.m., at Pace Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, Texas, with funeral services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Ryan Cemetery in Tarkington. Pastor Dennis Gilbert will officiate.
Serving as pallbearers will be Robert Leonard, Bruce Dillard, Mike Padgett, Michael Padgett, Brode Chamberlain, and David Alexander.
Jimmy’s legacy is one of laughter, generosity, and a life well-lived. He will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.