William Junior Leake

03/29/1954 - 09/05/2024

William Junior Leake, 70 of Eden, NC passed Thursday, September 5, 2024. The family will receive friends Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, 114 Henry Street, Eden, NC from 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will at Hairston’s Family Cemetery, Shady Grove Road, Eden , NC.

Mr. William “Junior” Leake, son of the late James Vester Leake and Odelia Upchurch Leake, was born on March 29, 1954 in Durham, NC at Lincoln Hospital. Preceded in death by his loving and dedicated wife, Mrs. Genevieve Haoyes Leake (Mary) of 40 plus years.

He was educated in the Durham City School System where he started at Durham High School and later transitioned to Hillside High School where he graduated with the Class of 1973. William was very active in school and was well known for always being best dressed and took great pride in his appearance. A fun fact about him was that he attended every class reunion without faill, cherishing the connections and memories with his former classmates.

William worked a number of years for the City of Durham and then later relocated to Eden, NC where he worked for the City of Eden, and retired after 20+ years of service. William was an active and devoted member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church, where he participated and generously gave his time to support the church community. William's faith and commitment to service was an inspiration to all who knew him.

William was a kind and generous man who dedicated much of his life to serving his community. He was well-known for fixing kid's bikes and lending a helping hand wherever he was needed. His passion for helping others extended to various odd jobs, but one that held a special place in his heart was making deliveries for Simple the Best Flowers. His selflessness and love for his community will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by Daniel Q. Leake and Paulette Leake Johnson, special aunts, Viola Upchurch Cox (Beo), who was like a mother him, her love, guidance and unwavering support helped him through the years. William is survived by his brothers; Charles Massey, James Henry Leake (Frankie). Sisters; Patricia And Leake, Vernell Leake Harris and Joyce Leake Peterson. Carrying on his legacy of love and strength in his absence will be his sons; Torico Edwards, Sr., Carlos and Rasheeda McCormick, Sherrod W. Leake, daughter, Ashley M. Leake. Grandchildren; Raquel Edwards, Torico Edwards, Jr., Londyn McCormick and Brooklynn McCormick. Grandchildren; Glamia Leake, Ariana Leake, Makade Leake, Jaziah Perkins, Giana Perkins, Kaleigh, Jaquqn Martin, Marasha Leake. great grand (A'mila Lampkins).