Kenneth Eugene Leonard

Dr. Kenneth Eugene Leonard, Ph.D., age 67 of Danielsville, GA passed away Sunday, July 20, 2014 peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family.

Born in Mansfield, OH, Dr. Leonard was the son of Billie June Shuffebarger Leonard and the late Samuel Bevington Leonard. He attended Michigan State University and the University of Georgia. Dr. Leonard served in the US Navy on the USS Forrestal (CV-59) from 1968-1971 then transitioned to the IT field to work in both the public and national defense military sectors until 1998. Dr. Leonard then went on to achieve a PhD in Ecology and focus on his life long love of preserving the natural world. He shared a love for the outdoors with his son and daughter, enjoyed teaching others about the conservation and protection of nature, and was also involved for many years with the Boy Scouts of America as a troop leader and in the administration. Dr. Leonard previously lived in Ohio, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania and established their residence here in Georgia.

Survivors in addition to his mother include his loving wife of 48 years, Anna Hilkovitch Leonard of the residence; son, Dr. Norman E. (Skye) Leonard, Dahlonega, GA; daughter, Stephanie M. (Todd) Higdon, Danielsville; Sisters, Bethany (Dr. Ralph) Hefner, Columbus, OH, Sharon (James T.) Clarke, Wheeling, WV; life long best friends, Dr. Greg and Mrs. Debra Radecky; grandchildren, Natalie Kate Higdon, Samuel Knox Higdon, and Jessica Marie Leonard-Mack.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MOAS, 1888 Colbert Danielsville Rd., Danielsville, GA 30633 or NEGA Food Bank, P.O. Box 48857, Athens, GA 30604.

Memorial services will be held at 1 pm on Thursday, July 24, 2014 at Ivie Funeral Home, Madison County Chapel with the Rev. Robby Brown officiating.

The family is at the residence of Todd and Stephanie Higdon, 34 Samuel Court, Danielsville, GA 30633.