Donald Leonard

Obituary of Donald LeonardDon Leonard passed away December 19, 2012 at Estelle House, Hospice, in Ocala. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; son, Troy; daughter, Tracy Chinn; six grandchildren and brothers, Robert (Bob) Leonard and Tom Leonard. During the golden years of his life, Don was known as the "Storyteller". Don used his talent of storytelling all of his life without really knowing it. He told stories to his brothers, children, and students. Upon his retirement Don became a "professional storyteller" not only telling stories but promoting storytelling and encouraging others to tell stories. Don retired from Marion County Education System. During his career he taught math, science, and driver education. He was a coach, assistant principal, and was the first Coordinator of the Marion County Adult & Community Education Program. Don had a love for teaching and sharing. Don also enjoyed helping his community. He treasured his time as a member of the Ocala Kiwanis Club and the Silver Springs Shores Elks Lodge. In each of these organizations he was involved in their outreach to young people. While a member of the Silver Springs Shores Elks, he was in charge of the Youth Hoop shoot at the local and district level and assisted on the regional level. In 1988-89 Don was the Elk of the Year at his lodge. He was the co-founder of the Ocala Storytelling Guild and the Ocala Storytelling Festival. Don started the Mother's Love Luncheon to benefit Hospice in memory of his Mother, Dorothy Leonard. He also served on the Board of the Florida Storytelling Association, and in 2005 was the Southeast recipient of the prestigious Oracle Award for Leadership and Service by the National Storytelling Network. Don attended grammar school in Holly Hill, Fl and graduated from Mainland High School where he was president of his 1959 senior class. Don attended Florida State University where he was a member of Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity and the FSU Flying High Circus. He graduated from FSU in 1963 and was always a proud Seminole. He met his wife while at FSU and they were married for 49 years. There will be a Celebration of Life for Don on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at the Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle. The celebration will begin at 3PM. You are invited to stay for refreshments and visiting with the family after the service. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to do so may make a contribution to either New Horizon Academy for Exceptional Students, 1100 NE 31st Street, Ocala, Fl 34479 (School for students on the Autism Spectrum) or Hospice of Marion County, PO Box 4860, Ocala, Fl 34478.

Donald Leonard

December 31, 1969 - December 19, 2012