Leonard Paul Hinzie Jr.

Leonard was born and raised in Houston, Texas, growing up just a street away from Buffalo Bayou, where he spent long days fishing alongside his grandfather. He later moved to Spring Branch and graduated from Spring Branch High School in 1966, where he sang in the choral ensemble, an early expression of a lifelong love of music.

Shortly after graduation, Leonard was drafted into the United States Army and served with the 4th Army Military Police during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he worked at Cameron Iron Works and later retired from Continental Airlines, building a life rooted in responsibility, faith, and family.

A passionate follower of Christ, Leonard met his wife, Sally Ann Hinzie (née Malone), at Lazybrook Baptist Church in 1975. He became a father to Richard and Heather in the most Leonard way possible, after Richard asked if he was going to be his new daddy. The family settled into a modest orange brick home in Houston’s Oak Forest neighborhood and became active members of First Baptist Church.

Leonard had a deep commitment to helping others and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. He served as a missionary for more than 25 years, including work in Russia, Ukraine, Egypt, and Brazil, answering a call that took him far from home but always closer to his faith. In more recent years, he traveled regularly to Huntsville, where he led a prison ministry at the Wynne Unit, offering compassion and hope to those often forgotten.

Leonard had a smile and laugh that could light up a room and make any stranger feel welcome. He moved through life with an open heart, finding joy in people, connection, and everyday moments. Above all, Leonard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, steady in his love, generous in spirit, and quiet in his strength. His life was marked by service, humility, and enduring faith.

Leonard is survived by his beloved wife, Sally Ann Hinzie (née Malone); his son, Richard Brady Hinzie; his daughter, Heather Renee Hinzie; his daughter-in-law, Heather Marie Hinzie; his granddaughter, Katherine (Katie) Anne Hinzie; and his sister-in-law, Linda White Hinzie.

The family will receive visitors beginning at 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, in the Fellowship Hall at LifeBrook Church, located at 1822 W. 18th St., Houston, TX 77008, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 12:00 p.m. in the Worship Center.

Donations:

Covenant Fellowship Church

PO Box 10769

Huntsville, TX 77340

Designate for Wynne Unit House Church

That goes directly to the account that funds our

Ministry at the Wynne Unit.

Flowers go to

Lifebrook Church

1822 W. 18th

Houston