Graveside services will be Friday January 28, 2022 at 2 pm, at Kinard Cemetery on Vance-Blocton Road with Rev. William D. Holley Sr. officiating and Heritage Chapel Funeral Home & Cremations, A Dignity Memorial Provider directing.
Leonard was preceded in death by his wife Catherine M. Cates, dad Earl Cates of Connecticut, mom Lila Cates of Connecticut, Sister Doris Cates of Israel and Brother Dale Cates Connecticut.
He is survived by daughter, Linda C. Lolley (Don) of Tuscaloosa; Son, Scott Cates (Wanda) of Northport; Brother, James Cates of Wallingford, CT; grandchildren, Amanda Hallum (Nick) of Moundville, Darryl (D.J.) Guy, Jr. (Allison) of Shreveport, LA and Danielle Mueller (Karl) of Northport.
Leonard was born in Hartford CT and raised in Oakfield, Maine. While serving in the USAF he met his loving wife of 58 years. He retired from the Military to Alabama where he was the Police Chief of the Tuscaloosa VAMC before he retired to Johntown.
Honorary pallbearers are the Staff of Comfort Care and Darrell Hallum.
In lieu of flowers, Leonard was a dog lover so we are requesting donations for Southern Paws Animal Rescue 501c3 Group, a non-profit organization.
Condolences may be offered at www.HeritageChapelTuscaloosa.com
