Michele J. Leonard-King

Michele J. Leonard-King, born December 19, 1953, passed away on December 31, 2025, surrounded by love. Michele was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, grew up in Florida, and spent most of her life in Texas before residing in Ozark, Missouri, at the time of her passing.

Michele was preceded in death by her parents, Michael Smith and Dorothy Smith, and her siblings Mike Smith, Judy Hipps, and Gary Smith.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Christine Lane and Rebecca Lewis; her son-in-law, Mike Lane; her cherished grandchildren, Megan Wilcox, Linsey Wilcox, Vallery King, Luke Lane, Hannah Dixon, Logan Lewis, and Juniper Lewis; and her beloved great-granddaughter, Bethany Nefores. Her family was her greatest joy, and she devoted her life to loving, protecting, and nurturing them.

Michele worked in retail management and the home-building industry, but her most meaningful work was caring for others. She lovingly raised and homeschooled her granddaughter and faithfully served as a devoted caretaker for her mother. Michele was known for always putting others first and for being fiercely protective of her family.

She was a devoted member of Second Baptist Church in Kingwood, Texas, where her faith guided her life and her service to others. Michele loved giving back to her family, friends, church, and community. She had a special love for dogs and cats and found joy in camping and traveling with her family. In quieter moments, she loved to read and journal, reflecting her thoughtful and caring spirit.

Michele’s life was marked by compassion, faith, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. While she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on through the lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to your local animal shelter in Michele’s honor.