Leona H Hand

Leona lived a full and remarkable life marked by faith, devotion to family, service to others and an adventurous spirit. She dedicated over 40 years of her career to the Cardiology Department at The University of Alabama, where she served faithfully and made a lasting impact through her hard work and commitment to caring for others.

Leona shared many years with her husband, John B. Hand. She was the proud mother of Penny Loyd, Jan Waller and Kay Barrett. Her family brought her great joy, especially her granddaughter, Lindsay Moore Zannis, and her great-grandchildren, Eli Zannis, Tessa Zannis and Andi Zannis.

Leona embraced life with energy and independence. She especially enjoyed playing Bridge and camping, creating memories and enjoying the freedom of the open road. She was an avid motorcycle rider and continued riding until the age of 81 - a testament to her independent spirit and adventurous heart. She had a special love for animals and found great happiness in their companionship.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, Ray Secrest Hosier and Ann Louise Johnson Hosier, and her brothers, Charles Hosier and Alan Hosier.

She is survived by her husband, John B. Hand; her daughters, Penny Williamson Loyd, Jan Williamson Waller and Kay Williamson Barrett (John); her granddaughter, Lindsay Moore Zannis (JC); her great-grandchildren, Eli Zannis, Tessa Zannis and Andi Zannis; her brother, Mark Hosier; and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly, especially her friend of 66 years, Terry Denman.

Visitation will be held at Southern Heritage Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Helena City Cemetery, located near Joe Tucker Park at 230 Tucker Road in Helena, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lakeside Baptist Church or to any humane society or animal rescue organization of your choice in Leona’s memory.