Richard H. Leet

Richard H. Leet died on Friday, Aug. 9, 2013. Born and raised in Maryville, Mo., Dick served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and earned an undergraduate degree from Northwest Missouri State University, and his PhD in Chemistry from The Ohio State University. He joined Standard Oil Company of Indiana as a research chemist, and served the company in numerous management capacities for over 39 years, retiring as vice chairman of Amoco Corporation.

Dick was active in many civic and charitable organizations, both in his adopted hometowns of Chicago, Ill., and Gainesville, Ga., as well as nationally. An eagle scout, Dick served scouting in numerous volunteer leadership positions, culminating in his serving as national president of the Boy Scouts of America. He also served on the boards of The Ohio State University Foundation, Northwest Missouri State University Foundation and Brenau University, and served as president of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.

Dick, and his beloved wife, Phyllis, celebrated their 64th anniversary this past June, and shared a lifetime together of love, family and service to others. Dick is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his sister, Barbara Ricklefs, Kansas City, Kan.; his children, Richard and Pam Leet, Germantown, Tenn.; Dana Leet, Germantown, Tenn.; and Alan and Debbie Leet, Eggleston, Va.; and by eleven grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Guided by a strong faith, Dick was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and friend to many.

His life of service to others will be celebrated at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013, at the First United Methodist Church of Gainesville. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Northeast Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America, or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Those wishing to make online condolences may do so at www.littledavenport.com.

Little & Davenport Funeral Home, 355 Dawsonville Highway, S.W., Gainesville, GA 30501, is in charge of arrangements.