Robert John "R.J." Leonard, Jr.

Robert John “R.J.” Leonard, Jr., age 35, of Decatur, formerly of Hannibal, NY, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

R.J. did construction for most of his life, until recently moving to Tennessee to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. Upon completing the police academy, he became a deputy sheriff at the Meigs County Sheriff’s Department, where he instantly became part of the family. He truly loved his brothers and sisters in blue. He also loved sports, especially football (Go Eagles), boating, fishing, and the outdoors, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother: Sylvia VanSlyke.

He is survived by his wife: Christa Leonard; children: Zachary, Evan, Kailynn, Aubrey, Isabelle; mother: Tammy Varnum; 2 siblings; several nieces, nephews, and other extended family, and a host of friends.

A funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 19, 2024, in the Meigs County High School Gymnasium.

Interment will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, in the Decatur Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 4p.m.– 7p.m., prior to the service on Monday.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Leonard Family.