Leon Battle

Leon was the youngest of two children born to Earle Battle and Mattie Mae (Anderson) Battle of Birmingham, Alabama on January 26, 1941. Known to family as Sunnie. Leon accepted Christ into his life at an early age. Leon was baptized at Harmony Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL by Pastor Witt. The Battle Family moved to Chicago, Illinois in the late 40's. Leon and Theresa "Bunnie" Harris his older sister shared a close bond. Throughout life both siblings leaned on each other for support through in his 83 years of life. Leon was well known on the West Side of Chicago. He attended Alford Tennison Elementary and Cregier High School where he learned the trade of upholstery. He developed a genuine love for basketball and many sports. Leon was drafted into the Army in 1967 and became a veteran after serving his country.

Leon married Jo Ann Thompson (Maywood, II) on March 26, 1966. In 1967, The couple welcomed three children during their union Tarliece (Chicky), Leon Dante' (Tito), and Maurice (Bunkey) whom preceded in death. Leon married a second time on March 15, 1980 to Irene Kelly (Maywood, II). With this marriage he gained five bonus children Lawrence Sr., Charles, Darene (preceded in death), Andrea, and Veronica. March of 1997 Leon and Irene moved to North Las Vegas where they spent 25 amazing years in their dream home. During these year in his leisure time he enjoyed casinos, the nightlife of Las Vegas and golf became his muse. Leon's favorite slot games was Blazing 7's and Triple 7's. Leon had a flair for fashion, passion for shopping and a love affair with music. He had an outstanding record collection.

Leon's faith throughout the years never wavered. He was a faithful member and servant at Victory Missionary Baptist Church in North Las Vegas, NV for more than 20 years. Leon served, as a member of the feeding and funeral committee. He was a caregiver to many and took great pride in the feeding the homeless. Leon served until he moved back to Chicago in 2021. Leon was a man of great integrity. His firm yet honest and gentle sprit was the highlight of his personality. The Lord called Leon home to rest on March 7, 2024 in San Marcos, TX. Where he was surrounded by love and the warmth of family.

Leon is survived by his loving wife Irene Battle of Chicago, Illinois, sister Theresa (Odis)of Birmingham, Alabama, daughter Tarliece Danielle' Battle of San Marcos, Texas, son Leon Dante' Battle (Amanda), Daughter-in-Law Candace Battle {Maurice), granddaughter Shenia, great-granddaughters Noel, Joy, and Peace. Grandsons Jalen, Jordan, Dante, Josiah, and Ryder. Step-Children Lawrence, Charles, Andrea Evans (Dewayne), and Veronica. Bonus grandchildren Monique, Harold, Lawrence Jr., Lee Jr., Casey (Brandon), and Jasmine. Great-grandchildren Charlotte, Theodore, Taylor, and Jabari. A host of nieces, great/great-great nieces, nephew, great/great-great nephew, cousins and friends.

Leon's memorial will be named at a later date in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois.

I'm Free

Don't grieve for me I'm free,

I'm following the path God laid for me.

I took his hand when I heard him call,

I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day

To laugh, to love, to work or play.

Task left undone will stay that way,

I found that peace at close of day.

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joy.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss

Ah yes, these things, I too, will miss.

But not burdened with time of sorrow

My life has been full, I've savored much

Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps, my time seemed all too brief.

Don't lengthen it now with undue grief,

Lift up your hearts and share with me,

God wanted me now. He set me free.

Our Father which art in heaven, hollowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, As it is in heaven.

Give this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil;

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, now and forever. Amen.

-Matthew 6:9-13