Joseph Michael Leavitt

Joseph “Joe” Michael Leavitt was welcomed to eternity in Heaven Sunday, December 1, 2024. His ever faithful parents were by his side as he passed. Joe was born June 9, 2005 and grew up in Byron Center, Michigan. He graduated from Byron Center High School in 2023. Joe was a student athlete at Grace Christian University.

Joe is survived by his parents Mike and Andrea Leavitt; sister, Nora Leavitt; grandparents Merritt and Chloe Padgitt and Normajean Leavitt; aunts and uncles Melanie (Dave) Palmeri, Natalie (Rod) DiFranco, Kail (Natasha) Padgitt; cousins Andrew, Emily, and Aaron Weiss, Sydney and Chloe DiFranco, George and Thomas Padgitt. Joe was preceded in death by his papa, Tom Leavitt.

Joe was a gifted and dedicated athlete. He developed a passion for baseball at a young age and tenaciously pursued the sport all while being an encouraging and uplifting teammate. He valued relationships and will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, humor, and servant leadership. Though only 19 years old, he has made a lasting impact in the lives of friends, teammates, coaches, and fellow athletes. Joe’s love for Jesus and his acceptance of salvation gives us hope. "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine." Isaiah 43:1b

Funeral services will be held 12 p.m. Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Kentwood Community Church, 1200 60th St. SE, Kentwood, MI 49508 (enter through Door I), with visitation from 10-11:45 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Christian University giving website - designated to the baseball program or send a check to: 1011 Aldon St. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49059. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their guestbook online.