Kathleen June Leonard

Kathleen June Leonard, 82, of Fresno, California, entered the loving arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ on September 27, 2025.

Kathy was born on June 20, 1943, in Selma, California, to Joseph and Juanita Cox. Kathy grew up with deep roots in the Valley. She married her high school sweetheart, Charles Leonard, and together they shared 65 years of love and devotion. Kathy and Charles built a life centered around family and farming in the Caruthers area, where their home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and hospitality.

Kathy’s life was defined by her love for her family and her joy in creating beauty around her. She loved to sew, paint, bake, and make things by hand, often blessing friends and family with thoughtful homemade gifts and hand-crafted cards. She also delighted in gardening and spent many hours creating and maintaining a beautiful yard. Kathy didn't keep that joy to herself; she shared her love of gardening with her children and grandchildren, passing on her passion for growing beauty from the ground up.

Being a wife and mother was one of Kathy's greatest joys. Kathy and Charles were inseparable. Whether it was farming, traveling, spending time at their cabin, and in later years, sitting and holding hands... Kathy loved being by Charles' side. She truly cherished her role as mother to their two children, Kristi and Michael, and poured her heart into raising them. Later, she embraced her role as Nana with unmatched enthusiasm and love, delighting in every moment with her grandchildren, Karissa and Kasey. While attending sporting events, school activities, or simply spending quality time together, Nana was always there cheering, supporting, and loving every step of the way.

Kathy's kindness, creativity, and faith touched countless lives. She leaves behind a legacy of love and care that will be remembered always. She is survived by her loving husband Charles; daughter Kristi Knevelbaard and her husband Mike; son Michael Leonard and his husband Dan; granddaughter Karissa Chacon and her husband Reyes; and grandson Kasey Knevelbaard. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, located at 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720. The service is scheduled for Thursday, October 9, 2025, starting at 12:00 pm.

Family and Friends are invited to view Kathy’s legacy at www.whitehurstsullivan.com and are encouraged to share memories and condolences.