Leon Vancil

Leon Vancil
June 25, 1935 – August 8, 2025
Paducah, Kentucky - Leon Vancil, 90, of Paducah, KY, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, in Calvert City, KY. Born on June 25, 1935, in Fulton, KY, Leon lived a life defined by service, adventure, and steadfast devotion to his loved ones.
Leon grew up in a close-knit family, the son of Cyrus Otto Vancil and Dulcie Dublin Vancil. Those early years instilled the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness, traits that shaped every chapter of his life.
A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Leon served his country for 22 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant. His military career took him across the globe, where he formed lifelong friendships and earned the respect of those he served alongside.
After his service, Leon continued to seek new horizons, literally. A licensed pilot, he found joy in taking to the skies. On the ground, he brought that same focus to the golf course, achieving an extraordinary five career holes-in-one.
Leon shared 44 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Marjo Vancil, building a life of love, laughter, and mutual support. From his first marriage, he was the proud father of Rick Vancil and Doretta Vancil, who carry forward his warmth, integrity, and sense of humor.
Family Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Cyrus Otto Vancil and Dulcie Dublin Vancil; his siblings, in birth order, Glenn Cyrus Vancil, Betty Lou Ottway, Darrel Henry Vancil, Joe Franklin Vancil, and Joyce Ann Herron.
He is survived by his wife Marjo Vancil; his children, Rick Vancil and Doretta Vancil; his stepchildren, Bill Tidwell and Ed Tidwell; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his nieces and nephews; as well as a host of extended family and dear friends who will miss his smile, his stories, and his steady presence.
Leon will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his gift for storytelling, and the joy he found in both adventure and the simple moments of life. Whether in the cockpit, on the fairway, or at a family gathering, Leon made those around him feel welcome, valued, and loved. His life was a journey well-lived. It was a story of service, love, and joy, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, continuing to inspire for generations to come.
Service Details Visitation: Friday, August 15, 2025, at Hughes Funeral Home, Paducah, KY, beginning at 12:30 PM.
Celebration of Life: Friday, August 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM, immediately following visitation.
Memorial Contributions In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions in Leon's name to the Air Force Aid Society, the official charity of the U.S. Air Force supporting Airmen, Guardians, and their families through emergency assistance, education, and community programs: afas.org or by mail at 1550 Crystal Drive Ste 809, Arlington, VA 22202.
You may leave a message of sympathy or light a memorial candle at www.hughesfuneral.com.
Hughes Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.