Mary Jo Leonard, a loving and gentle soul, passed from this world on July 22, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on August 19, 1947, to Arnold and Lucille Duffield, Jo brought compassion and joy to everyone around her.
Jo married Richard (Butch) Leonard in 1970, and he preceded her in death and her father, Arnold Duffield. She is survived by her brother, Tom Duffield; stepmother, Darryl Duffield; two step siblings, Caroline and Mark; her ‘sister from another father’, Sue Riley, and her lifelong friend, Becky Cornish.
Jo earned a teaching degree from Michigan State University and began her lifelong career teaching special needs children in Mason Public Schools. After 35 plus years of teaching, she continued her course work to earn Master's and Education Specialist degrees in School Psychology. Jo helped countless children and their families in this capacity. She also worked with graduate student interns at Michigan State.
Jo also tutored children for many years. Her love of children extended to the golf course, where she instructed children in the game of golf. This was a passion she had shared with her father.
Jo's love not only extended to children, but to animals. She gave homes to many a stray cat and rescued countless other animals, often taking them to the vet or animal rehabilitation at her own expense.
Jo was extremely well read, and she instilled her love of books in adults and children alike. Jo was also an accomplished writer and artist.
She affected so very many lives. If she knew and loved you, she also loved your children and parents--whoever you cared about, she cared about. Jo enriched the lives of countless people and she will be deeply missed.
Per Jo’s request, no services will be held. Memorial donations in Jo’s name may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society or Ele’s Place.
