Thomas DeWitt Leech

Tom was born August 27, 1941, in Forest, VA, the second son of Raymond M. Leech, Sr. and Elsie Elizabeth Graybill Leech. He lived in the area his whole life. He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond M. Leech, Sr. and a sister, Dorothy (Dolly) Burns.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Linda S. Leech, four beloved children and six grandchildren. His sons are Thomas Douglas Leech (Doug), wife Debbie, and granddaughters, Addison and Brianna, and one step-grandson, Ethan Kiger, all of Forest; Matthew Michael Leech (Matt), wife Lyndsey, granddaughter Eliza Beth and grandson Alexander (Xander) of Lynchburg. His daughters are Rhonda L. Ruff, fiance’ Wes Rice, and grandson Dakota Ruff of Forest; and Elizabeth L. Dorr and granddaughter Jennifer Allison of Lynchburg. He is also survived by his mother, Elsie Elizabeth Graybill Leech, two brothers, Raymond M. Leech, Jr., wife Louise, and William (Billy) Leech, all of Forest; one sister, Elizabeth Anne Gruer, husband Bobby, of Madison Heights, and a large number of nieces and nephews and other friends. He leaves behind a special pet, Sophie.

Tom worked at B&W Naval Nuclear Fuel for 25 years in the Purchasing Dept. After retirement from B&W, he owned and operated Blue Ridge Small Engine Parts and Service for 12 plus years, retiring in 2010. He served area youth groups for a number of years, including the Timberlake Lions youth football team, Rainbow Forest Swim Team, et al. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

His family wishes to thank the physicians and staff of Lynchburg General Hospital et al, for their care and compassion. The family also wishes to thank the Campbell County Rescue Squad for their diligence and care; and Centra Hospice, especially for their guidance, comfort and kindness during this time.

A funeral service will be conducted, 2pm, Saturday, November 16, 2013, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with Bishop Williams officiating. Interment will follow at Virginia Memorial Park in Forest, VA.

The family will receive friends, 6-8pm, Friday, November 15, 2013, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel and at other times at the residence.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Centra Hospice, Campbell County Rescue Squad-Timberlake, or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Missionary Fund or Education Fund.