H. Jack Leonard, of Huntsville, Alabama, being just shy of age 87, passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2020. Jack was born February 7, 1933 in Brilliant, Alabama to Alphonso Paul and Lillian (Herron) Leonard.
Jack is survived by his wife, Pauline (Tesney) Leonard and children: Rick Leonard (Winnet) of Huntsville, Alabama, Dana Leonard Sheffield (Terry Mark) of Chatom, Alabama, and Stacy Leonard Thornton (Terry Lee) also of Huntsville; grandchildren, John-David Sheffield (Cassie), Mary Katelynn Sheffield, Morgan Scogin (Dustin), and Kristen Hale (Spenser); as well as great grandchildren, Alaina and Ryan Scogin and Tucker Lee Hale, along with his extended families at Lakewood United Methodist Church and South Hampton Nursing and Rehab Center. In addition, Jack left behind a host of nieces and nephews as well as many others who lovingly referred to him as Papa Jack.
Jack was preceded in death by his father, mother, and four brothers.
He served in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War Veteran.
Jack attended UAB and UAH where he concentrated on engineering courses. Early in his career he worked extensively with the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and SkyLab Space Station projects where he received many awards as an Electrical Test Engineer. He finished his career with the NASA projects and eventually retired from Dunlop Tire and Rubber Company.
Jack was a Master Mason and member of Brilliant Lodge #601, F&AM of Alabama. He loved children and always said, "children are our most precious resource." He volunteered with the Northern League Football Association and coached for several years in his spare time with his teams usually ranked first or second place. He also worked extensively with the Boy Scouts Of America. Jack enjoyed fishing and playing golf. Following his retirement and after being diagnosed with macular degeneration, Jack shot his first Hole-in-One on July 17, 2000 at the age of 67.
Visitation will be held Saturday, February 8, 2020, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM with the funeral service immediately following. All services and the internment will be at Valhalla Funeral Home and Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Association or a charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valhallafunerals.com for the Leonard family.
