Richard Leonard

Richard James Leonard, 82, of Cleveland TN died on February 5, 2025 at Bradley Health Care following a short illness. Richard was born in Hazleton, PA on October 17, 1942, the oldest child of the late N. Miles Leonard and Lois M. Shields.

A former police officer and detective in New Jersey, Richard worked for the city of Chattanooga as a traffic engineer, retiring several years ago. He was a certified handgun carry permits educator with the Bradley County Sheriff's Office since 2011, and a volunteer Reserve Officer. Richard also participated in the creation of "Joker's Law", legislation that passed in Tennessee that would make it an automatic felony to those causing injury or death to K9 dogs and any other law enforcement animal. Richard was an avid photographer, currently working on photographing historic buildings and barns in the regional area where he lived. He was also a leather craftsman, creating detailed gun holsters and knife sheaths.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Vigil of Kill Devil Hills, NC. Four siblings include E. Scott Leonard of Drums, PA; Susan McCabe of Winchester VA; David Leonard of Clifton, NJ; Sally Dionisio of Southport, NC. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren. Richard's oldest child Michael Leonard preceded him in death in 2008. Richard greatly appreciated the support of his local friends and community.

The family will plan a private celebration of life at a later time. Donations in memory of Richard are welcomed at Project K9 Hero, https://projectk9hero.org/

You are invited to share a personal memory of Richard or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.