Gloria Leonard's Obituary
Gloria Ellen Leonard, 92, of Decatur, IL passed away December 28, 2023, at her residence.
Gloria was born May 16, 1931, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of William and Alice (McGonigle) Fitzgerald. She married Russell E. Leonard on January 22, 1955, in Decatur, IL. They were happily married for fifty-three years until Russ’ passing in 2008.
Gloria was a Charter Member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. She was a 1949 graduate of St. Teresa High School and maintained relationships with her classmates throughout the years. Gloria was a proud member of the Red Hat Ladies and was a member of the Macon County Home Extension for over sixty years. In her free time, she was an avid reader, delighted in attending jazz festivals, enjoyed socializing, and loved spending time with her family. Gloria, with Russ, also enjoyed watching the St. Louis Cardinals and University of Illinois basketball. A devoted mother and grandmother, Gloria never missed an opportunity to watch her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting and school events.
Gloria was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother and was adored by her children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Surviving are her children, Karen Gipson of Decatur, IL, Bill Leonard of Rowlett, TX, and Laurie Pakula (Gary) of Forsyth, IL; grandchildren, Matthew (Jenna) Leonard, Molly (Blake) Cannon, Amanda Leonard, Scott Gipson, Claire Pakula, and Grace Pakula; step-grandchildren, Matt (Elizabeth) Gipson and Nate Gipson; and great-grandchildren, Madison Leonard and Bennett Cannon.
Gloria was preceded in death by her husband Russell; parents; sister, Marilyn Cole; son-in-law Tom Gipson, and daughter-in-law, Susan Leonard.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 12:00 PM, Friday, January 5, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM 12:00 PM, Friday, January 5, 2024, at the church.
Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Illiopolis, IL.
The family would like to thank the dedicated nurses, CNAs, and staff at Primrose, Hickory Point Christian Village, and Traditions, as well as Dr. Khan and his staff for their care and compassion.
Memorials: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church or St. Teresa High School.
Condolences and memories of Gloria may be shared at www.moranandgoebel.com.
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