David L. Leonard

1969 - 2026

David L. Leonard

Born: January 3, 1969 | Died: January 20, 2026

David L. Leonard, beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away Tuesday.

David was born in Rhode Island on January 3, 1969.

After pursuing his passion for baseball at a young age, he went on to attend Tusculum College as a student-athlete. He later earned his law degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law and proudly considered himself a Vol for Life.

Above all else, David was devoted to his family. He deeply loved his wife, Mendy (Mercer); his mother, Nancy; and his three children – Patience (Matthew) McKeever, Sydney Leonard and her fiancé, Matt Mervis, and David M. Leonard. He was a proud and loving Poppa to his granddaughter, Claire McKeever. David's pets, Reece, Kazi, and Grey were very dear to him and brought him great comfort and joy.

Throughout his career, David earned the respect of his peers as an attorney and Juvenile Court Magistrate. He was a man of integrity, known for his wisdom, fairness, and compassion, both professionally and personally. He was also deeply grateful for the friendship and support of his law partner and best friend, Brent Hensley.

David was preceded in death by his grandparents: Clifford and Evelyn Leonard; and his uncles: Michael, Danny, and Richard Leonard.

He is survived by his loving family, who will miss him dearly.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the medical professionals who cared for David during his illness, including the teams at MD Anderson and Tennessee Cancer Specialists of Greeneville.

There will be a gathering of friends from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday at Jeffers Funeral & Cremation Service Afton Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Isaiah 117 House and Greeneville-Greene County Humane Society in his honor. For Isaiah 117 House of Greene County, please mail donations to: Greene County Isaiah 117 House, 1390 Birdwell Mill Rd., Greeneville, TN 37743; Or visit: support.isaiah117house.com/greenetn For Greeneville-Greene County Humane Society, please visit the shelter at: 400 N. Rufe Taylor Rd., Greeneville, TN 37745