Mr. John Henry Leonard

Celebrating The Life Of John Henry Leonard: John H. Leonard was born in Columbus, Georgia to the late Simmie, Sr. and Lucy Leonard. He was born into a family of three sisters and five brothers. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Simmie Leonard Jr., Mary Baldwin and Eddie Leonard. He was educated in the Columbus, Georgia School System. He migrated to River Rouge, Michigan in 1945. He served in the U. S. Army as a sharp shooter rifleman 745 and was active as a boxer for the Army as well, receiving an honorable discharge. John returned to River Rouge and on a blind date, met the love of his life, Ruby McCants. They were bonded in Holy Matrimony on October 7, 1950, and remained so for 66 and one half years. To this union was born three sons, John Jr. who preceded him in death at the tender age of 2, Daniel K., and Derek, three daughters, Denise, Karen G. and Sharon. Also, a son Brian Cole. John joined Union Second Baptist Church on March 31, 1968, and was baptized on April 7, 1968, by the late Reverend E. C. Copeland. John's career started out at an early age with him working alongside his father as a grass and greens keeper at Fort Benning, GA Golf Course. He caddied and he learned the game of golf. When John migrated to Michigan his career consisted of working at Great Lakes Steel and Ford Motor Company. He was a Floor Inspector supervisor at Ford Motor Company and enjoyed playing on the company's golf league. After 31 years of service, he retired from Ford Motor Company and enjoyed a life of leisure. John was a family man, inheriting the nick name "Dita" from his second oldest son Daniel. He worked hard to support his family, providing them with everything they ever hoped for and needed. He showered his family with unconditional love, profound wisdom and fond memories. He had a passion for playing golf, shining his cars, shining his shoes and reading the daily newspaper from the front page to the back page every day. He was a sharp dresser and known as the man with the cleanest, shiniest car in River Rouge. He kept his cars so clean that one of them was nicknamed the Sun by his friends. John, (AKA) Johnny, Dita, Unc, Johnny Cake, was a model citizen and a role model, he was a father figure to many and beloved by all.

Mr. John Henry Leonard

August 19, 1925 - February 27, 2017