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William Edward "Billy"
Leonard

January 5, 1947 – December 31, 2018

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— John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory

Obituary for William Edward "Billy" Leonard

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William Edward “Billy” Leonard, 71, of Salem, Va. crossed that checkered flag, finished his race and went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 31, 2018. He was born on Sunday, January 5, 1947 to the late Lawrence and Edith Leonard. All are saddened by his passing, we know “Billy” wouldn’t want us to be sad, but to remember all the happy moments we had with him. “Billy” made many friends during his 71 years with us, and he loved every single one of them. November 12, 1968 was the beginning of a happy 50 years of marriage with the love of his life, Barbara Ann Leonard. During that time they were blessed with 2 wonderful daughters, Brenda Mae Wells and husband, Edward, and Linda Gayle Leonard; At which time they were further blessed with grandchildren, Elexa Cheyenne Wells and fiancé, David Peters, Jen Marie Leonard, Dakota Montana Wells, Landyn James Leonard; and a great-grandchild due in March; alongside “Billy” was his loving sister, Joyce Ann Poore and husband, Jeff extended family, Ethan Sanford, Bill Sanford, Christen Owens, Dr. Corey Taylor and wife, Sara, Josh Taylor, and numerous special friends too many to mention. After graduating high school, “Billy” served in the United States Navy, aboard the USS Sylvania docked in Naples, Italy. After his time served in the U. S. Navy, he pursued his love for racing. During that time, he gained his racing family. “Billy” crossed paths with so many people that it was hard to keep track, but he never met a stranger. Once you were part of his life, he was the friend that you could always count on. No matter how big or small, no one was more generous or willing to lend a helping hand.
A funeral service to celebrate “Billy’s” life will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 4, 2019 at the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Va. with Rev. Donald “Whitey” Taylor officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Lawn Memorial Park in Roanoke, Va., serving as pallbearers are his grandchildren and other close family members.
Friends may visit with the family from 6 – 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 3, 2019 at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.

First Visitation

When Thursday, January 3rd, 2019 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location
John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home
Address
305 Roanoke Boulevard
Salem, Virginia 24153
Additional Information

Service Information

When
Friday, January 4th, 2019 2:00pm
Location
John M. Oakey & Son Chapel
Address
305 Roanoke Boulevard
Salem, Virginia 24153

Interment Information

Location
Cedar Lawn Memorial Park
Address
5070 Cove Road NW
Roanoke, VA 24017
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