James Randolph Leeder

James "Jim" Randolph Leeder, a dedicated Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation Safety Inspector who served the agency for decades, passed away after a lifetime of professional commitment on Friday November 29th, 2024 at the age of 79. Jim began his remarkable career with the government in 1966, dedicating nearly 56 years to civil service. Throughout his professional journey, he was actively involved in union leadership, serving as Chapter president of the TM2 Professional Aviation Safety Specialist (PASS) Chapter, where he worked diligently to navigate and address union issues for his fellow employees. Jim was referred to as a great friend, wonderful colleague and hard worker. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was known for his passionate love of his alma mater Oklahoma University and Sooner Football, almost never missing a game and cheering enthusiastically (happily or angrily!) for his beloved team as a season ticket holder for decades. Jim's summers were defined by family traditions at the Leeder family's long-held Eufaula Lake property. He was meticulous in preparing the location for annual family reunions, ensuring every detail was perfect. He enjoyed celebrating July 4th with a huge fireworks display he provided, after everyone nearby had finished shooting off their own. He would make a point to purchase a generous supply of cool and unique firework cakes for the big night!
During his moments of relaxation, Jim was an avid movie enthusiast and loved watching and rewatching movies! He liked all kinds of films and could recall many favorites. Jim had a keen interest in travel and sightseeing, both domestically and abroad. He had planned a couple of long road trips, whether with his sons and later with his grandchildren, to see as many points as possible between the west and east coasts before returning home. In the last 18 months, Jim moved to live in OKC where his sons were able to be in closer contact and enjoy more time of his final years. Jim was preceded in death by his father John Alexander Leeder Jr., mother Marile Bernadine (Anderhub) Leeder, and brother David John Leeder and is survived by his sons Robert and Mark Leeder as well as many step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren.