Mary Rebecca Leonard

Mary Rebecca Lee Leonard went home January 14, 2021 and is now with the Lord and rejoicing in his presence. We thank God for his promise of comfort and salvation during this time. She lived her life giving testament to God and his son Jesus Christ. Mary’s life centered on her faith, love for her family, love for her church family and many friends. Born in a farmhouse outside of Gaylord in Clarke County Virginia October 1934 she was one of nine children to Zella and Brooke Lee. With 6 older brothers, they taught her how to get tough. Having an older and younger sister gave her the opportunity to share home ideas as they matured. Mary was baptized at 11 years old at the Upperville Baptist Church during a revival that was held by Billy Graham’s team. She was wearing her good dress but was so moved by the Lord that she stepped forward for baptism and walked home soaking wet. After graduating Marshall High School she married Harry Leonard, Jr. June 11, 1952 in Frederick, Maryland and together they were blessed with three daughters. Constance Ann, Deborah Lee and Diana Lee. Deborah was called back to be with the Lord in infancy. Since 1965 she was an active member of Round Hill Baptist Church in Loudoun County, Virginia. She always shared the Lord’s good graces with others. She served for years as a member of the Deaconess Board, Missionary Society, Financial Board, Outreach Ambassador, Sunday School teacher to many for years and the choir. She also was active with the Meals on Wheels and Round Hill Women's Garden Club. She also served previously on the Round Hill Town Council. Mary drove a school bus for 18 years and retired as western Loudoun Bus Coordinator. When she retired, it required three people to fill her position. Since then, she was approached by many to share their fond memories of riding her bus or being trained by her. She started her own painting and wallpapering business in the early 1980's, Leonard and Associates, comprised of women who also drove school buses working between daily runs. Due to their meticulous abilities and eye for detail they were in great demand. Two homes stood out as they were embellished from bottom to top with one being a 200 year old, three story owned by Mavis Rush. The other, home of Jack and Phyllis Pardee while he was coach of the Washington Redskins. She enjoyed traveling and visited all but a few of the states as well as France, England and Ireland but her best adventure was the Holy Land tour. She loved gardening and had great pleasure in watching her plantings beautify her home. Her excitement of spring flowers was infectious. Her other love was her precious yorkie companion, "Grace". Mary was greatly loved and respected for her kindness, compassion, grace and unconditional love. Being the family matriarch, wise and a thoughtful person, many sought her for guidance with life issues. She assisted in resolving someone’s life issue by asking the right questions so they would recognize their own answers. Then together, they would come up with a plan so they could achieve their goal. She will be greatly missed by her loved ones and dear friends however, it is certain they will celebrate that she completed her journey and is now in her glorious eternal home. Surviving are her daughters Constance “Connie” O’Neil and partner Ben Sixma of Bluemont, Diana Wilt and husband Daniel “Danny” of Charles Town, WV. Grandchildren; Christopher O’Neil and wife Mary Ellen of Bluemont, Daniel “DJ” Wilt, Jr and wife Jen of Inwood, WV, Jessica Wilt and fiancé Levi Ashbaugh of Charlestown WV. Great-grandchildren: Anessa O’Neil, Zella Athey, Dorothy Chatriwala, Hailey Piwowar , Avery O’Neil, Cullen O’Neil, Daniel Wilt, III. Great-great-granddaughter Lilith Ashbaugh. Mary is also survived by sister, Peggy Peele and husband Jerry of Winchester. Preceding her to the Land of Glory, her husband Harry, infant daughter Deborah Lee Leonard, sister Edith Pyne, 6 brothers; William "Buddy" Lee, Robert Lee, Sr., Stuart Lee, Sr., Thomas "Dick" Lee, Kenneth Lee and Harry Lee. Graveside services will be held Monday, January 18th at 2 PM at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Upperville, Virginia with Pastor Chip Corbin officiating We ask that you maintain a six-foot distance and wear face coverings in order to comply with state COVID-19 regulations. Honorary Pallbearers; Christopher O'Neil, D.J. Wilt, Danny Wilt and Ben Sixma. A celebration of life will be held at a later date and time at the Round Hill Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Round Hill Baptist Church, 7 West Loudoun St, Round Hill, VA 20141