Mary Myrtle Leonard

Mary Myrtle Leonard, a truly remarkable and deeply loved woman, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, at Cambrian Senior Living in South Lyon, surrounded by her devoted family and the compassionate care team who had come to know and love her.

Born on February 22, 1931, to the late Chester and Ruth (Lotz) Clark, Mary lived a life defined by kindness, strength, and a heart that never stopped giving. Outgoing and dependable, she had a natural way of leading others with grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to getting things done-whatever was needed, she was there.

Mary met the love of her life, Robert Leonard, at Mt. Carmel Hospital in Detroit, where she worked as an administrative secretary and he served as an orderly. The two were married on June 10, 1950, at Redford Baptist Church, and together they built a life grounded in faith, love, and adventure.

Mary enjoyed crocheting and knitting, as well as dedicating time to creating Braille printing for the blind-quiet but impactful work that reflected her deep compassion for others. We also recognize her deep faith in the Lord and her service to the church she loved deeply. She also always enjoyed cards, board games, and finding deals while shopping.

Mary and Robert shared a love of travel, spending many joyful years as snowbirds in Florida and Alabama, surrounded by a large group of cherished friends. Nothing brought Mary more happiness than her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a proud and devoted grandmother who traveled across the country-including all the way to Colorado-to support their sporting events and performances. She never missed a moment that mattered.

Mary's warmth, sense of humor, and genuine care made her someone everyone loved to be around. She lit up every room and left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Her family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff of Cambrian Senior Living, who not only cared for Mary with exceptional compassion but stood by her side in her final moments. Their presence and love meant the world to the family and will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her loving children, Deborah (David) Schmidt and Robert Leonard; her dear grandchildren, Ryan (Jill) Schmidt, Michael (Brooke) Schmidt, and Robert W. Leonard; and her adored great-grandchildren, Emma Schmidt, Connor Schmidt, Ben Schmidt, Jamison Schmidt, Halie Schmidt, and Kela Schmidt. She is preceded in death by her dear siblings, Richard Clark and Margie Stillson.

A memorial service is planned to celebrate Mary's extraordinary life on Saturday, November 8, 10:30 am (visitation with the family beginning at 10 am) at Crosspointe Meadows Church, 29000 Meadowbrook Rd., Novi.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's memory to Crosspointe Meadows Church of Novi, Michigan, a place that held deep spiritual significance in her life.