Thomas Bernard Leonard
03/17/1964 - 08/17/2020
Mr. Thomas Bernard Leonard was born March 17, 1964 in Jackson, Mississippi to the late Sherman Moore and Lillian Alexander Leonard. He departed this life on August 17, 2020 in Jackson, Mississippi. His formative years were spent around his loving family and friends. At a young age, he began his religious training. He united with the St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church in Jackson and remained a member until his passing.
Thomas was educated in the Jackson Public School System and began showing his athletic abilities early. His foray into sports started at an early age. by the time he'd arrived in high school at sports powerhouse Callaway High School, he was already a gifted athlete. He joined the Charger football team and soon became its quarterback. It was in this position that he truly showed his talents and excelled. By the time he's graduate from high school he'd caught the eye of several collegiate football program. Continuing his education he was offered a athlete scholarship to attend Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi. There he not only a gifted football player, he was also a very popular student among his peers. Affectionately called "Johnny Gun" and "Black" by classmate and teammates alike, he was eager to learn the game of college football with the same gusto he had in high school. Under the tutelage of legendary Delta Devil head football Coach Archie "Gunslinger" Cooley, Thomas became a profile quarterback. He did not squander his playing opportunities. Upon completion of his stellar career at The Valley, Leonard followed other MVSU football stars to the National Football League. After a year with the Kansas City Chiefs, Thomas left professional football behind; turning his attention to coaching.
His work with the youth was truly his calling, as he largely dedicated his life ti developing bodies and minds of young football enthusiasts. The crowning culmination achievement of his athletic career came in last years. He got the nod from his Alma Mater when MVSU elevated and enshrined him with the Valley Sports Class of 2019 into the university's Athletic Hall of Fame in a glittering ceremony in Itta Bena.
When asked how he'd like to be remembered by the Valley Nation, Thomas said "MVSU" gave me an education and I got the perfect opportunity to finish my college sports career; as well as make lifetime friends. People Can Leave Valley, But Will Never Leave You"
In 2017, he was united in holy matrimony to the former Birdia Dancy. Combined they became dedicated parent of a blended family that included five children. If there was one thing loved and held dear to his heart was his lovely wife and his family. The two of them positively glowed whenever they were seen together. The marriage was a happy one.
He was a Mason and a member of the MW King Hiram Grand Lodge -Jackson, Mississippi. He was also active in many civic, social and charitable endeavors in the city as well. He was truly loved by his family , his many friends and all who knew him. His trademark big smile that greeted anyone he met, is what most will remember most. He will be dearly missed.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Sherman Moore and Lillian Leonard, his siblings, Hertistine Mare Perry, Herman C Leonard and Rufus E. Leonard.
To forever cherish his memory is his loving and dedicated wife, Birdia Dancy Leonard, his children, Brittany of Little Rock, AR; Jimikius -Jackson, MS; Eric (Paisley) - Little Rock, AR; Jemecia (Alvin) -Dallas, TX; Margo and Melva -Atlanta, GA; grandchildren; Eric, Eadlyn, Eryn, Zachary, Chirayah, Jaycub, Alyeceia, Aayden, Jyllian.
To also cherish his memories are his siblings, Gloria -Memphis, TN, Jimmy, Margaret both of Jackson, MS Will Frank -Memphis, TN, Michael, William both of Jackson, MS
He is also survived by his brothers/sisters in law; Willie Gregory, Elder "Bimp" Jacqueline, Diane, Sandra, Lawanda and Arisha. As well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
"We all loved you Thomas but God loved you best"