DANIELSVILLE – Dr. Kenneth Eugene Leonard, Ph.D., 67, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2014, peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family.
Born in Mansfield, Ohio, he was the son of Billie June Shuffebarger Leonard and the late Samuel Bevington Leonard. He attended Michigan State University and the University of Georgia. Dr. Leonard served in the United States Navy on the USS Forrestal (CV-59) from 1968-1971 then transitioned to the IT field to work in both the public and national defense military sectors until 1998. Dr. Leonard then went on to achieve a PhD in Ecology and focus on his life long love of preserving the natural world. He shared a love for the outdoors with his son and daughter, enjoyed teaching others about the conservation and protection of nature, and was also involved for many years with the Boy Scouts of America as a troop leader and in the administration. Dr. Leonard previously lived in Ohio, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and established their residence here in Georgia.
Survivors in addition to his mother include his loving wife of 48 years, Anna Hilkovitch Leonard, Danielsville; son, Dr. Norman E. (Skye) Leonard, Dahlonega; daughter, Stephanie M. (Todd) Higdon, Danielsville; two sisters, Bethany (Dr. Ralph) Hefner, Columbus, Ohio, Sharon (James T.) Clarke, Wheeling, W.Va.; life long best friends, Dr. Greg and Mrs. Debra Radecky; and grandchildren, Natalie Kate Higdon, Samuel Knox Higdon, Jessica Marie Leonard-Mack, Elijah, Wolfie and Gwennie Wright.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MOAS, 1888 Colbert Danielsville Rd., Danielsville, GA 30633, or NEGA Food Bank, P.O. Box 48857, Athens, GA 30604.
Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 24, at Ivie Funeral Home, Madison County Chapel with the Rev. Robby Brown officiating.
The family is at the residence of Todd and Stephanie Higdon, 34 Samuel Court, Danielsville, GA 30633.
Ivie Funeral Home, Madison County Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
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