Gary Dean Leonard

Gary Dean Leonard, 77, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, one day before his 78th birthday.

Gary was born on July 30, 1948, in Decatur, Illinois, to Vernon Kenneth Leonard and Virginia Leonard. He attended Illinois Wesleyan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970. While there, he played football and was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, forming lifelong friendships.

Gary enjoyed a successful career with Santa Fe Railway, where he worked for many years Senior Director Marketing/Sales of BNSF and Director Marketing Fort Worth & Western Railroad (FWWR). He was respected for his leadership, dedication, and strong work ethic throughout his career.

On March 7, 2009, Gary married the love of his life, Phyllis Fields. Together they shared years filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories.

Gary never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make people laugh. Whether through a quick joke, a witty remark, or his playful sense of humor, he enjoyed bringing smiles to those around him. He loved spending time with family and friends, trying new recipes, grilling, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. One of his greatest joys was being “Papa G” to his four beloved granddaughters—Henley, Harper, Eden, and Jessa. He treasured every moment with them and took immense pride in watching them grow. Gary also found great joy in traveling and discovering new places. Whether it was a long road trip in his Tesla, an adventure with family, or exploring somewhere new, he embraced the journey and the memories made along the way.

Gary was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis Leonard; his parents, Vernon Kenneth Leonard and Virginia Leonard; and his brother, Kenneth Leonard.

He is lovingly survived by his daughters, Tara Adams and Megan Leonard; his four cherished granddaughters, Henley, Harper, Eden, and Jessa, who knew and loved him as “Papa G”; his brother, Dick Leonard; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Gary’s faith was an important part of his life, and he was a faithful attendee of Hillside Community Church.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at Hillside Community Church on September 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Hillside Community Church in Gary’s memory.