Leonard Smith

James Leonard Smith, 87, Independence, MO, passed away May 19, 2012. Graveside services will be at 11 am, Thur., May 24 at Mound Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 – 6:30 pm, Wed. at Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO 64052.
Leonard was born Nov. 20, 1924 in Conway, AR. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of WW II where he served on the submarine U.S.S. Bowfin as a diesel mechanic. He then used his knowledge and began an over fifty-year career as a mechanic in Kennett, MO and retired from Cable-Dahmer Chevrolet in 1989. He was a member of the South Crysler Restoration Branch and held the Priesthood office of Teacher. He enjoyed reading all types of books and was a fountain of knowledge on many subjects. Leonard was a quiet man who loved helping his family. He was a master story-teller who treated them to stories of his childhood.
Leonard was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-four years, Sue Smith in 2009; brothers Joseph Smith, Marvin Smith, Samuel Smith; sisters Pauline Wright and Mittie Booker. He is survived by daughter Teresa Thompson and husband Leonard; son Anthony Smith and wife Chere, all of Independence, MO; grandsons Ian Thompson and wife Amy, Kenefic, OK; Collin Smith, Independence, MO; step-grandson Adam Rogers and wife Paula, Kansas City, MO; and many other family members.