Francis "Len" Leonard Loving

On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, surrounded by his family at home, Francis Leonard (“Len”) Loving peacefully departed this life at the age of 87, following a courageous battle with cancer. His strength, grace, and determination in the face of adversity reflected the character he carried throughout his life.

Len was born on July 20, 1938, in Richmond, Virginia, of humble roots. He was the eldest of his siblings — a sister and two brothers — and from an early age showed the discipline, competitiveness, and quiet drive that would shape the man he became. He attended Cathedral High School in Richmond, where he was a standout athlete, earning a scholarship to Southern Benedictine College in Cullman, Alabama. At Southern Benedictine, Len continued to distinguish himself as a student-athlete, becoming a multi-sport, multi-year letterman and captain of the basketball team during his junior and senior years. He graduated in 1960 as president of the student council and Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Business Administration.

Following graduation, Len was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. He married his first wife, Ruth, with whom he had three children. After Ruth’s passing, he married Suzanne (“Suzie”) Kiernan, his devoted and loving partner for 41 years. Their life together was marked by love, loyalty, companionship, service, and a shared commitment to the people and causes they embraced.

During his distinguished 30-year Marine Corps career, Len rose to the rank of Colonel and served multiple tours in the Republic of Vietnam. There he was awarded the Bronze Star with combat “V” for valor. His service reflected the same discipline, physical toughness, and leadership that marked his life from a young age. In 1977, as Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion at Parris Island, South Carolina, LtCol Loving led by example, consistently scoring a perfect 300 on the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test. In 1979, he served as Executive Officer Marine Barracks at 8th & I, Washington, D.C. He was detailed to the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee to help organize and stage the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. In 1986, Col Loving was instrumental in establishing the United States Marine Corps Blount Island Command, a prestigious command and major economic engine for Northeast Florida, an enduring example of his vision, discipline, and leadership.

Col Loving retired from the Marine Corps in 1989 and began a second chapter of service in the Jacksonville community. He worked as a project manager for Morales & Shumer Engineers, which led to an opportunity for him and Suzie to move to Barcelona, Spain. There, Len was hired as head of security for the construction of the Hotel Arts, built to house high-profile athletes during the 1992 Olympic Games. He had the privilege of meeting and help protect the USA Dream Team, a treasured memory.

Len returned to Florida and worked for the Florida State Comptroller’s office under LtGen Milligan, USMC (Ret.). This role allowed him to reconnect with old comrades from the Marine Corps, friendships that endured until his passing.

In 2011, Colonel Loving became Chief Executive Officer of the newly established and financially struggling Five STAR Veterans Center in Jacksonville, Florida. He spear-headed the creation of the “Veterans Helping Veterans” Project and its “Passport to Independence Program,” programs helping homeless veterans move toward positive life choices and independence. Running “The Center” with Suzie by his side for nearly fifteen years was a labor of love. The stories of lives saved, lives changed, and friendships cemented are numerous. They reflect “The Colonel’s” reputation as a skillful leader, influential mentor, compassionate advocate, and steady force for good. He retired from The Center on July 1, 2025.

To his children, Len was more than the titles he earned or the commands he led. He was Dad. He was steady, direct, protective, and loving. He expected much because he believed much was possible. He taught through example — work hard, stand firm, stay loyal, and show up for the people you love. His presence was commanding, but those closest to him knew the depth of his heart. He offered direction when it was needed, encouragement when it mattered.

One of the places he was most at peace was the home he and Suzie built together. He enjoyed quiet mornings and afternoons on the back porch over looking the St. John’s River and, after a round of golf at Hidden Hills, a beverage and the simple warmth and comfort of their home.

Len was known by many names — Len, Colonel Loving, Dad, Grandpa, and Pop. Each name reflects a different part of a full and extraordinary life. His accomplishments were many, but what most defined him was his ability to connect with people and make them feel seen, supported, and believed in. He was on your side. He offered direction, encouragement, and most of all, love.

Len is survived by his beloved wife, Suzie; his daughters, Elaine and Susan; and his sons, Walter and Joey. His memory will live on in their hearts and in the lives of all those he inspired. He will be deeply missed, and his example will be forever cherished.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the 5 Star Veterans Center at https://www.5starveteranscenter.org/donate.