Monica Leonard

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Monica Marcell Leonard, who left us on February 12, 2026, at her home in Fredonia, Arizona. Monica was born on March 24, 1971, in Kearny, Arizona.

Monica loved spending time with her Grandma and Grandpa Kirkland as a young child. In 1975, her grandfather opened a pizza parlor in Winkleman, Arizona, and named it after her - Monica's Pizza Parlor. He named it in honor of his "favorite grandchild" - and yes, being the only contender at the time certainly helped. Wink, wink.

In 1985, her family moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, where she graduated from Coconino High School in 1989 and went on to further her education at the University of Arizona, graduating in 1995. Monica had a lifelong love of learning, and a passion for reading that stayed with her throughout her life.

While attending college, she met the love of her life, Bud Leonard, and they married on January 28, 1996. They moved to Page, Arizona, in 1997, where they bought a home and started a painting business together. After settling in Page, Monica served as a Victim Advocate and later continued her dedication to public service as a Justice Court Judge from 2003 to 2013. She loved every minute on the bench and was known for fairness, kindness and compassion for everyone she served. She made many friends along the way and was driven by a true passion for serving the community.

In March 2004, they welcomed the daughter they had always dreamed of, Kalli - a child they both adored more deeply than words can express. Being a mom was Monica's greatest joy, and watching Kalli grow brought her more happiness than any award or achievement ever could.

Monica lived with significant physical health challenges from the age of 18 on. She faced these challenges with incredible strength, grace and determination. When her body grew too tired, she passed away peacefully at home. Her friends and family will always remember the laughter and long conversations shared with her and will treasure those memories forever. Although our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing her body is free and she is able to run and move freely and is no longer in pain, that gives us all peace to envision.

Monica is survived by her beloved daughter Kalli; her mother, Tess Moeller; and siblings Nichole (Wayne) Brown and Solomon Moeller, along with their children and grandchildren; her grandfather, Melvin Kirkland; and many other loving family members.

In lieu of flowers a donation account has been set up at Mountain America to help with these unexpected expenses in the name of Tess Moeller/Monica Memorial. Thank you for all your love and support during this time.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Monica Leonard, please click here to visit our sympathy store.