Richard A. Leonard Jr.

Richard "Rich" A. Leonard Jr.

Clyde---Richard "Rich" A. Leonard Jr., 76, of Clyde, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Rich was a proud Vietnam veteran who served his country with honor. Known affectionately by many as "the man on the mountain," he carried that same strength and dedicated spirit into his civilian life. He spent his career working as a skilled iron worker, taking immense pride in his craft and contributing his skills and hard work to Associated Maintainace for many years before retiring from Sanford Industrial Contractors.

Outside of work, Rich knew how to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. He was happiest when he was dropping by with a pie, cooking up a meal for those he loved, especially his famous chili rice,

watching football and NASCAR on weekends, or taking long drives admiring the scenery. The West had a special place in his heart, especially Yellowstone.

Above all else, Rich’s greatest joy was his family. He cherished his children and grandchildren deeply. He shared an incredibly close, unbreakable bond with his granddaughter, Gracelynn, who will always and forever be known as "Papa's girl." His warmth, dedication, and the love he gave so freely to his family will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Rich was predeceased by his loving wife of 24 years, Martha J. Leonard, as well as his father, Richard A. Leonard Sr., and mother, Betty V. Leonard.

He is survived by his three sisters, Lydia, Susan and Melody along with his loving children Brandon Teachout (Birdy), Brandy Townsend (Kevin), Samantha (Robert) Thurston, Joelle Townsend, and Ashley Purdy, as well as his cherished grandchildren, his love of 22 years, Cindy Golembeski, special friends Shannon Smolinski and Patrick Congdon, and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 24, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Savannah Fire Hall. Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories and celebrate the life of a wonderful man.

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