Elsie Leonard peacefully passed at her home on July 15, 2023. She was 85. Born Elsie Bell Patterson on Sep. 13, 1937, in Cullman, Alabama, she was the tenth of Charlie and Emma Patterson’s thirteen children.
A singer from an early age, she often shared stories of how she learned to yodel while working the fields of her family’s farm. Although shy, her voice, the joy of music, and her strong will carried her throughout her life. Mrs. Leonard turned down career opportunities that would have taken her away from Cullman and chose the more traditional path of raising a family in her hometown. She married the late Troy Leonard in 1956 and had three children.
Always a hard worker, she held several jobs over the years but her real joy could be found in the simple things of life. She loved spending time with children, singing, Bible study, gardening, canning fruits and vegetables, cooking, and perfecting the best homegrown tomato sandwich around. She taught her children the important lessons of perseverance, humor, and when to take yourself on a walk.
Mrs. Leonard was predeceased by her husband Troy in 2020.
She is survived by her three children, Jock Leonard (Teresa) of Cullman, AL, Joel Leonard of Cullman, AL, and Juli Leonard (Dr. Bruce Keene) of Raleigh, NC. She was the proud grandmother of five grandchildren: Krista Kinsland, Kara Leonard, Grace Holmes (Gage), Hope Leonard, and Tula Leonard, and three great-grandchildren: Audrey Holmes, Grover Kinsland, and Asa Holmes. She also leaves behind siblings Joe Patterson and Charlie Patterson (Joy) of Cullman, AL, as well as many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give special thanks to Gregory Bostick MD, Angelia Elliot MD, Enhabit Hospice, Stephanie Heard RN, April Christiansen RN, Visiting Angels, the late Claudette White, Sabra Gober, and Andrea Spitzer. The family also extends deepest gratitude to family friend and caregiver Sandra Comley.
The family will hold a graveside service and asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org <http://www.alz.org>).
