Leon Roy "The Lion" Rickards

Leon "The Lion" Roy Rickards, age 87, of Salisbury, Maryland, joined his Heavenly Father and many loved ones on October 22, 2025. He was born in Millsboro, Delaware, on January 8, 1938, to Roland and Helen (Engelhardt) Rickards.
During his high school years, Leon excelled in athletics, lettering in four varsity sports and earning a place on Delaware's All-State Football Team. Following his graduation in 1955, he attended the University of Delaware and the University of El Paso before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. Upon completion of his naval service, Leon continued his military career in the United States Army. He graduated from Officer Candidate School and, after active duty, served in the Army Reserves until his retirement as a Major in 1979.
Following his distinguished military career, Leon embarked on a successful career in banking, ultimately becoming a founding member and President of The Bank of Bowie. During this time, he was actively involved in numerous civic and social organizations, most notably the Masonic Lodge (Collington Lodge No. 230), where he was a 32nd Degree Mason. In May 2022, he received his Fifty-Year Pin, commemorating more than five decades of dedicated membership.
Leon served a five-year term on the Board of Directors and as Treasurer of Bowie Health Center, Inc. He was also active in the Orleans Court Condominium Association, where he held several leadership positions, and served as Treasurer of the Morris Mill Homeowners Association. He gave generously of his time through MAC, Inc., and as an arbitrator for the Maryland Department of Labor.
After many years of service to his community and profession, Leon enjoyed a well-earned retirement in Salisbury, Maryland, surrounded by dear friends whom he considered family.
Leon's memory will be lovingly cherished by Keith and Valerie Owens and their daughters, Olivia and Lara Owens, along with his dear friends Sandra Chen, JoAnne Roland, and Roberta Sherman. This is but a small representation of the many people he loved and who loved him in return.
Leon was known for his keen intellect, sharp wit, and unwavering ability to forge meaningful and lasting friendships. He valued every connection he made and deeply cherished the moments shared with those closest to him.
A commemorative service will be held at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, or Town Cats, P.O. Box 1405, Ocean Pines, MD 21811.
Leon will be deeply missed by all those who knew him, but his guidance, words, and lessons will always be with us.