Floyd Arnold Leeds

Floyd Arnold Leeds, known affectionately by many names throughout his life, was born on October 30, 1942, to Marion and Dora Kuddes Leeds of Strong City, Kansas, at the Stubenhofer home. He grew up on the family farm just east of Council Grove, where he learned the values of hard work, faith, and family that guided him throughout his life.

Floyd attended Big John School and later graduated from Council Grove High School in 1962. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a radio operator aboard the USS Arcadia. It was during his Navy service that he earned the nickname “Hayseed,” a name that stayed with him for the rest of his life. To his close school friends, he was fondly known as “Pudge,” and to his beloved grandchildren, he was simply “Dada.”

After his military service, Floyd began a long and dedicated career with the railroad, working first for the Missouri Pacific Railroad and later retiring from the Union Pacific Railroad after 33 years of service. His strong work ethic, loyalty, and commitment marked every aspect of his professional and personal life.

Floyd’s time in the Navy and his railroad career also nurtured a lifelong passion for ham radios, which he lovingly passed down to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

On June 5, 1966, Floyd married Debbie Taylor, beginning a marriage built on love, partnership, and family that spanned nearly six decades. Together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and devotion.

Floyd is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his children: James Leeds (Carolyn), Jason Leeds (Jennifer Jordan), Michelle Marquez (Russell), and Amanda Leeds-Pavone; his grandchildren: Dow Leeds (Summer), Samantha Stephens (Levi), Tyra Chrest, Mathew Chrest, Brecken Floyd Leeds (Maddie), Deegan Leeds, Taylor Marquez, Ali Marquez, Colton “Dez” Pavone (Haley), Larry Pavone, Cristian Pavone, and Eric Witmer, Jr.; and his great-grandchildren: April Leeds, Aurora Leeds, River Leeds, Alyssa Stephens, Rossen Leeds, Rawlie Leeds, Morgan Chrest, Barrett Chrest, Oliver Floyd Pavone, Henry Pavone, Harper Pavone, and Ember Pavone.

Floyd passed away on September 21, 2025, at the age of 82. He will be remembered for his humor, kindness, unwavering love for his family, and the lasting legacy of devotion, service, and cherished memories he leaves behind.

Funeral and memorial service details will be shared by the family at a later date.