Obituary of James E. Leonard

James E. Leonard “Jim” Age 85 of Erin NY. He was born December 23, 1935 in Erin NY, the son of the late Lawrence and Erma (Rosekrans) Leonard, and passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by family on Sunday July 11, 2021. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Beverly (Jack) Fridie; and brother Rodney (Linda) Leonard. Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan (Shoemaker); siblings Joan Bailey, Iona Weaver, Onalee Hartman; daughters Rayna King (Gene), Deidra Leonard-Barton (Michael) and step-son Joseph Smith (Soy); grandchildren Junelle and Bryanna King, Zachary and Jesse Ruland (Ariana), Christy Smith-Nichols (Michael) and A.J. Smith, Michael and Matthew Smith; along with many nieces and nephews. The family thanks the nurses and from home health care and hospice that assisted with Jim’s care. Jim was a hard worker his entire life and took care of his family. He retired from Kennedy Valve after 33 years. He gave his time and energy to the Town of Erin for 30 years, giving back to the community he lived in most of his life. He was a stock car driver from an early age and when he gave that up, he worked for Watkins Glen Race Track as the head flagger and assisted car owners with his extensive knowledge of cars and racing. He served in the military and was a longtime supporter of the NRA. Thank you to family and friends who called, helped and visited. He appreciated it very much. Family and friends are invited to visit Barber Funeral Home, 413 So. Main St., in Horseheads, NY on Saturday, July 17th 2021 from 12 pm to 2 pm and from 4 pm to 6 pm. Jim’s funeral service will be held there at 6 pm. Committal and interment will take place at a later date; Jim will be laid to rest in Scotchtown Cemetery in Erin, NY. In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make a donation in Jim’s name to the NRA by clicking here.