Jose R. Leal

Jose Ricardo Leal, 91, of Avon, Ohio, was called home to be with the Lord on January 29, 2026 at Avon Oaks Caring Community in Avon. Jose was born to Arnulfo and Santos Leal (nee De Leon) in McAllen, Texas on July 30, 1934. He had resided in Lorain County for over 40 years. From an early age Jose learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and faith. He left school in his early years to help his family by picking cotton, demonstrating a sense of responsibility and sacrifice that would define his life. Later in life, he returned to his education at the University of Bowling Green, proving that determination and growth have no age limit. Jose proudly served his country in the United States Army as a tank mechanic. He voluntarily deployed to Japan from 1954 to 1956, serving during the time of the Korean War. His service reflected his courage, skill, and commitment to duty. Jose spent many years working at Ford Motor Company in Avon Lake Ohio, where he served as a Line Manager in the Paint Department. His expertise and leadership extended beyond the factory floor, as he traveled to Venezuela, Mexico, Spain as an interpreter to assist with many international Ford plants. Known for his stubborn, funny, and unpredictable personality, Jose left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He enjoyed watching sports, working on cars, and lending a hand in construction projects, especially woodworking, where his skill and willingness to help others shined. He was a man of strong Christian faith, which guided his life, decisions, and love for his family. He believed deeply in God's grace and lived his life with purpose, resilience, and devotion. "Well done, good and faithful servant" –Matthew 25:23

Jose is survived by: his loving wife, Amanda (nee Corley), whom he married November 4th 2006; his children, Jose Leal Jr. (Martha), Michael Leal (Silvia), Dan Leal (Janet), his son-in-law, John Mosher, Noah Leal, and Isabella Leal; his brother, Ramiro Leal (Ada); his cherished grandchildren, Grace Ruiz (Adrian), Ivan Camou, David Camou (Lindsey), Nathan Leal (Katrina), Andrew Mosher (Kami), Meredith Leal, Carrie Macgowen, Caleb Mosher (Blenn), Cathryn Martin (Brock), Elizabeth Kerns (Dave), Jose Leal III (Ashley), David Mosher (Jessica), and Daniel Leal; and his beloved great grandchildren, Everleigh, Cohen, Kenzley, Felicity, Jemma, Levi, Ophelia "Offie", Eleanor, Evelyn, Vivienne, Sophia, Ricardo, Ferran, Madison, Ana Lucia, Graham, and Cole. He was preceded in death by: his parents; his late spouse, Ofelia Leal; his daughter, Corina Mosher (married to John Mosher, whom Jose was like a father to); his brothers, Mario, Ernesto, and Armando Leal; and his sisters, Angelica Ritsko, and Magdelena Leal.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday February 3, 2026 from 4 to 8pm and, on Wednesday February 4, 2026 from 10am until the time of the Christian Funeral Service at 11am at the Liston Funeral Home, 36403 Center Ridge Rd., North Ridgeville. Michael and Noah Leal will officiate the service. The burial will be at Brookdale Cemetery in Elyria, where full military honors will be observed. Lastly, the family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Avon Oaks Caring Community and Miracle City Hospice for their compassionate care and unwavering love.