Addie Lea Leonard, the middle child of Sidney Leonard and Virginia Roberson Leonard was born on November 30, 1941, in Houston Texas. Although she was named after her Dad’s only sister, she was affectionately called “Addie Vae” or “Bae” by her loving family and close friends.
Addie was raised in a Christian home and accepted Christ at an early age. She joined Pleasant Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. George Bazeron, where she served as the pianist for the choir.
As a child, one of her many joys was watching her daddy cook. As an adult she incorporated those same skills she learned, by hosting holiday dinners with family and friends. She also enjoyed doing crafts, refurbishing old furniture (specifically old chairs) and painting.
Addie attended Booker T. Washington High School and graduated in 1960.
On October 1, 1960, she was united in holy matrimony with Willie D. Bland of Taylor, Texas. To this union, three beautiful children were born: Karen, Michael and Kevin. They raised their children in a Christian home being true believers “of not sparing the rod”,
The family joined Israel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend A.A. McCardell. She served as a senior choir member and Bible School Teacher. In the late eighties, they joined Greater Love Baptist Church under the late Rev. O. Dolphus, and they later became members of Disciples of Faith Church under the leadership of Rev. K. Ganther where they remained faithful members until her health began to decline.
Addie was employed at National Life Insurance which later became American General Insurance Company. She was also employed by JC Penney, and finally retiring from Kroger.
On June 26, 2022, Addie departed her earthly home to start her walk in Heaven. She was preceded in death by her parents Sidney and Virginia Leonard, and her two brothers Charles Lee Leonard and Eugene Leonard.
She leaves to cherish her memory; her beloved husband Willie D of nearly 62 years; daughter: Karen Bland, sons: Michael Bland and Kevin Bland; two grandchildren; Kedrean Bland and Tiffany Bland, three great grandchildren: Sahara Bland, Kendra Bland and Cassidy Bland, two sisters-in-law Helen Leonard and Kathy Leonard, nieces, nephews, cousins and host of loving family and friends.
Addie will continue to be remembered by her smile, positivity and sweet demeanor and will forever live in our hearts.
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