Leon Elwood Cheers

Leon was a lifelong resident and devoted historian of the Shallotte community. Calm, kind, and deeply thoughtful, he lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. He often said that he loved his family, his friends, his town, and his country — but most of all, God. Those closest to him will also remember his dry sense of humor, delivered quietly and often when it was least expected.

He was born on December 9, 1926, in Shallotte, North Carolina, to Roney and Madie Cheers, and was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jonathan Wheeler Cheers (May 31, 2021), and his siblings Roney W. Cheers (and wife, Leona Cheers), Audrey Sessoms (and husband, Jimmy Sessoms), and William “Billy” Cheers.

He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Phyllis Ormsby Cheers; his son Jeffrey Martin Cheers; his daughter Kathryn Cheers Farmer and her husband Richard Farmer; and his daughter Melissa Cheers Kumpel and her husband Frederick Kumpel Jr. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Sara Briannon Farmer, Joshua Colby Farmer, and Joshua’s wife, Kayla Farmer; his sister-in-law, Betty Cheers; and his cherished nieces and nephews.

Leon had a deep love of learning and creativity. He enjoyed reading, writing, playing card and board games, spending time in nature, and visiting with friends. Independent and sharp-minded, he continued to drive until the age of 98, a testament to his clarity, confidence, and independence.

Leon was also a dedicated businessman. He owned and operated his own automotive parts business and spent a majority of his lifetime in the automotive industry, from which he retired at the age of 90.

He made lasting contributions to preserving the history of Shallotte and the surrounding community. Leon was the author of the Shallotte Centennial Commemorative Book, helping document the town’s heritage for future generations. He also authored several important works, including Down the Road Over the River and Through the Woods – A History of Shallotte, A History of Calvary Baptist Church, and the novel Once Upon a River. He also authored an article included in the book The Class of ’47 Was Me, a collection of articles reflecting on life, experiences, and times.

A devoted admirer of his wife’s creativity, Leon deeply loved Phyllis’s poetry and proudly included her work in his books. In recognition of his dedication to preserving local history, a commemorative plaque on the Shallotte Riverwalk honors his contributions to the town he loved so dearly.

Leon will be remembered for his gentle spirit, steady presence, intellectual curiosity, quiet wit, and unwavering faith. His life was one of quiet impact — deeply felt by his family, his friends, and the community he served with humility and grace.

Funeral services will be held Saturday January 3, 2026 at two o'clock in the afternoon at Calvary Baptist Church with Pastor Joseph Needham officiating. Burial will follow in the Chapel Hill Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Josh Farmer, Barry Robertson, Rick Farmer, Barry Cheers, Cary Cheers and Fred Kumpel.

The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service.

You may offer online condolences at www.shallottefunerals.com

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel