Source: http://www.obitsforlife.co.uk/obituary/517957/Smith-Leonard.php

Leonard Smith
November 20, 1924 - May 19, 2012

James Leonard Smith, 87, Independence, MO, passed away May 19, 2012. Graveside services will be at 11 am, Thur., May 24 at Mound Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 -- 6:30 pm, Wed. at Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO 64052.

Leonard was born Nov. 20, 1924 in Conway, AR. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of WW II where he served on the submarine U.S.S. Bowfin as a diesel mechanic. He then used his knowledge and began an over fifty-year career as a mechanic in Kennett, MO and retired from Cable-Dahmer Chevrolet in 1989. He was a member of the South Crysler Restoration Branch and held the Priesthood office of Teacher. He enjoyed reading all types of books and was a fountain of knowledge on many subjects. Leonard was a quiet man who loved helping his family. He was a master story-teller who treated them to stories of his childhood.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-four years, Sue Smith in 2009; brothers Joseph Smith, Marvin Smith, Samuel Smith; sisters Pauline Wright and Mittie Booker. He is survived by daughter Teresa Thompson and husband Leonard; son Anthony Smith and wife Chere, all of Independence, MO; grandsons Ian Thompson and wife Amy, Kenefic, OK; Collin Smith, Independence, MO; step-grandson Adam Rogers and wife Paula, Kansas City, MO; and many other family members.