Rev. James Albert Leath, Jr.

Born September 8, 1931, in Asheville, North Carolina, Albert was the son of the late James Albert Leath, Sr. and Gertrude Elizabeth Bean Leath. He was a 1949 graduate of Lee Edwards High School. Continuing his education, Albert was attended Mars Hill University from 1949 to 1951, Wake Forest University from 1951 to 1953, Southeastern Theological Seminary from 1953 to 1957, and Command & General Staff College from 1959 to 1965.

Albert served as a minister at Hillard Memorial Baptist Church in High Point, Holloway Street Baptist Church in Durham, First Baptist Church in Graham, First Baptist Church in Cherryville, and Eastern Hills Baptist Church in Charlotte.

Albert retired as a Chaplain with the North Carolina National Guard at the rank of Colonel. He later served as a Chaplain with Mint Hill Police Department and Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department. He also on the Board at the fire department. Albert was a member of Providence Baptist Church.

Albert was a humble, steadfast, and generous person and will be remembered most for his unwavering commitment to his faith and family.

In addition to his parents, Albert was preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Audrey Slate Leath, and his sister, Mildred Leath Shuford.

Survivors include his two sons, David Alan Leath (Lezli), and Timothy James Leath (Leah); his daughter, Kristen Leath Teskey (Matt); and grandchildren, Justin, Jacob (Tim), and Jessika (David and Lezli.)

A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Monday, February 17, 2025, at Providence Baptist Church, 4921 Randolph Road. The Rev. Dr. Lee Canipe and The Rev. Eddie D. Price will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service in the church rotunda. A private entombment will be in Providence Baptist Church Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mint Hill Fire Prevention Bureau, 8313 Fairview Road, Mint Hill, North Carolina 28227.