Joseph "Choogie" Leach

Joseph was the beloved son of Lois Jean (Leach) Deason and the late Sylvester Eugene Watashe. He was a man with a gentle heart, a kind spirit, and a soul that naturally drew people in. Respectful, thoughtful, and well-spoken, Joseph had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. He was a friend to all, carrying himself with quiet strength and sincerity.

Above all else in this world, Joseph loved his son, Jace Edwin Leach. Being Jace’s father was not just a part of his life—it was his life. Jace was Joseph’s greatest blessing, his proudest joy, and the very center of his heart. He spoke of his son with endless love and pride, and every moment they shared meant everything to him. Whether they were playing video games together, laughing over a movie, or simply sitting side by side, Joseph cherished those moments more than anything else. His love for Jace was deep, unconditional, and unwavering—a bond that nothing can break.

Joseph found true love with his wife, Adrienne Palmer, and together they built a family rooted in love, laughter, and devotion to their son. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a man whose purpose was always centered on caring for those he loved.

Joseph enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—playing pool, playing dice games, playing games, watching movies, enjoying art, and spending time with friends and family. He loved having a good time and sharing laughter. He was a proud member of the Arbeka Ceremonial Grounds and a loyal Seattle Seahawks and Oklahoma Sooners fan. Wherever Joseph went, joy and friendship followed.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Adrienne Leach, and his beloved son, Jace Edwin Leach, of the home; his mother, Lois Jean Deason and husband, James Deason of Tahlequah, OK; Cambria Brooke Leach Bird of Tahlequah, OK; his uncle, Arnold Meely of Muskogee, OK; his aunt Emma Dorman and husband Harv of Salina, OK; his brother, Levi Watashe of Tulsa, Oklahoma; nieces Deanna, Destiny, and Peyton, mother-in-law and father-in-law Philip and Paula Palmer of Olympia, WA, as well as, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and countless other family members and loved ones whose lives were forever touched by him.

Joseph was preceded in death by his father, Sylvester Eugene Watashe; his sister, Wenona Leach; his grandmothers, Nancy Leach, Jennie Cameron, and Elizabeth Meely; his dad, Raymond “Meeko” Meely; and Uncle Preston Meely.

Joseph is now resting peacefully with his loyal dog, Jack. Though his time here was far too short, his love lives on—especially in the heart of his son. Jace will forever carry his father’s love, strength, and spirit with him. Joseph’s greatest legacy is not measured in years, but in the depth of love he gave to those around him and the memories that will be held close forever.

A funeral service will take place at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Reed Culver Chapel in Tahlequah, OK.

Honorary pallbearers for Joseph will be Jace Edwin Leach, Chad Ray Jones, Mason Wells, Anthony Young, cousin Joseph Leach, Levi Watashe and Arnold Meely.