Mission - James Leo a Fan of Pepsi, the Longhorns, and all genres of music and film, James Alexander Leo passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at the age of 81. Born August 30, 1941, in Zapata, TX, James began a life of service at a young age as he helped his father, Leo J. Leo, in his La Joya business and political career. James attended the University of Texas at Austin and continued as a huge supporter of the Burnt Orange throughout his life. For over 32 years he served his country as a foreign service officer with USAID, which was attached to the State Department and administered aid to other countries. His role in procuring housing, furniture, vehicles and offices for personnel was critical to the overseas missions, and he was known for his ability to get things done despite highly bureaucratic environments. James's sheer heart and respect for other cultures earned him admiration in his organization and across the continents, and his legacy can still be felt where he served in at least 14 countries, including Thailand, El Salvador, Honduras, India, and Russia.

James is survived by his wife, Lydia Leo; daughter, Terry Gontarek (David); son Leo J Leo, III (Kim); daughter-in-law Cheryl Leo; grandchildren Rachel Willis (Jonathan); Ryan Leo; Monica Pipenger (Colten); Madison Gontarek, and Ryleigh Leo; brothers Henry Leo, Leo J. Leo, Jr; sister Nellie Eastman; and a large and loving extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Feliz Leo; brother William Leo; and son Kenneth Leo. James and his sense of humor, innate kindness, and inexhaustible stories of his times abroad will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 13, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Brown Family Funeral Home Chapel, 701 E. Expressway 83, Mission, TX with a Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. All services will conclude at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Midshipman's Foundation, Kenneth J. Leo Scholarship Fund, 3128 Burks Lane, Austin, TX 78732, or visit the website utnrotcalum.org and click on the Give tab, Ways to Give drop-down, then Make a Tribute Gift Donation.

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Published by The Monitor on Mar. 12, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for James Leo

13 Entries

Willy

April 24, 2025

Jefa Lydia,, soy Willy de. ECUADOR, pero fui en Ucrania la persona que más apreciaba a usted y a mi Jefe James, no ssbe el inmenso dolor que me causa saber que este ángel ya no está, espero que siga tomando su Pepsi con hielo como tanto le gustaba, los llevaré siempre en mis recuerdos a usted a Kenneth y a mi padre adoptivo de palabra James A. LEO.

VK Manchanda (Retd. USAID/NEW DELHI)

March 18, 2023

Extremely sad and sorry to learn that Jim Leo is no more with us and has left for his heavenly abode. I was fortunate to have worked with Jim .. he was my immediate boss for five years, my close friend, my peer, and much more a dynamic person who ably managed and brought back life into USAID when we were in the process of rebuilding and reinventing USAID in India. We pray that his soul rests in peace and may the Almighty give strength to Lydia and the family to bear this irreparable loss of a person who always had a smile on his face and a sense of humor. It is hard to imagine that he left so early. God bless.

Mary Gontarek

March 17, 2023

We keep you all in our prayers. Bob and Mary Gontarek

Arun Monga

March 15, 2023

Condolences to Mr Leo's family on the loss of such a warm person. Have worked with him at USAID India where he is remembered as an outstanding professional, a great friend and above all a warm warm person.
He was a very caring person ever smiling and always ready to help everyone.
May God bless his soul.
Om Shanti

Shrikant Bhonsle

March 15, 2023

Deepest condolences to the family. Excellent soul and a true big hearted professional who laid the foundation of a new USAID in the 80s. He had a profound influence on me and many. RIP

The Kainth Family

March 14, 2023

Dear Leo Family. Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope with this huge loss. Remembering you Lydia and your loved ones today and always. Om Shanti

The Kainth Family

WC CHHABRA

March 14, 2023

Very sad to hear the news of Jim Leo passing away. My heartfelt condolences to Leo family. A true professional, He was such a competent EXO who restructured our USAID NEW DELHI INDIA office starting 1986. He introduced SOPs and extended Delegation of Authority to all. He most efficiently handled Ashoka move after David Lockhart left and NOB project till 1990-91 before Neal Meriwether arrived. He left deep impressions on our minds and deep foot prints on USAID GROUNDS. Thanks for sharing his biography not known ever before. Deeply saddened, I pay my heartfelt gratitude and respects to his noble soul. May he RIPRegds
WC Chhabra- USAID EXO office 1985 -2002.

Naresh Gulati

March 14, 2023

Heartfelt condolences to the family. I worked with Jim in USAID/India, @ 1988, he was EXO. I remember him, he was very charming and kind hearted person. RIP Jim

Rodolfo De La Garza Jr

March 14, 2023

Dear Leo Family,
Thinking of you as you celebrate the life of your beloved Jimmy. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time.
My memories of Jimmy are beautiful memories, from the football games in La Joya to getting together in Washington DC for a nice dinner. We will miss his sense of humor, his kindness and his consideration for others.

Sandra Vejar

March 13, 2023

My deepest condolences for Mr. Leo's family, as we used to call him in USAID/Ecuador. He was one of the most kind persons I have met. Jim was an extraordinary boss, who always showed care and compassion to all his staff. He had amazing stories who he loved to share with all. We will never forget you Mr. Leo....
Sandra Vejar

Susan Jacobs

March 13, 2023

Dear Leo Family:

Please accept our heartfelt condolences on your loss.

Susan and Barry Jacobs

Marta Hotz

March 12, 2023

Lydia, Rich & I loved you both. You & Jimmy have always been so kind to us. My granddaughter loves the Matryoshka doll that you brought us & plays with it often. I am so sorry for your loss. Love to you

David Lopez

March 12, 2023

My Deepest condolences and sorrow to the Leo Family.

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