James R. Leonard, Sr.

James Robert Leonard, Sr., 52, of Urbana, passed away peacefully in his sleep Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

Jim (“Jimbo”) was quite the character and always had a story to share. He loved to laugh and was always up for a good practical joke. He could be a bit of a renegade but that always made for another good story. Jim was a tradesman by occupation and could fix anything. He loved the outdoors and watching the History channel.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, John C. Leonard, III, and Shirley Cross Leonard, and his sister, Suzanne (Suzie) Leonard Fisher.

He is survived by his children, Amber Leonard of Urbana, and James Robert Leonard, Jr., of Springfield, 5 grandchildren, Atticus Blevins, Kendra Kloeker, Bentley Leonard, Evren Leonard and Oliver Leonard; brother, John (Jay) Cleveland Leonard, IV, of Sopchoppy, Florida; sister, Mary Leonard Spina and husband, Jim, of Bluff City, Tennessee; sister, Paula Leonard Russell and husband, Kevin, of Bellefontaine; and several nieces and nephews; and his cat, Scarlett.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at DaVita Midwest Urbana Dialysis and Dr. Ahsan Ullah who went above and beyond for Jim’s care.

A cremation has been arranged with Eichholtz & Daring Funeral Home, Bellefontaine, at his request with specific instructions to his sisters for some final adventures.

EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Center, Bellefontaine, is honored to serve the Leonard family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.eichholtzdaring.com

Family authored obituary / EJT