Leon Ashley

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Leon Sterling Ashley, age 76, of Humansville, MO, passed away on Friday, November 20, 2020, while at the Citizen’s Memorial Hospital in Bolivar, MO.

Leon was the first child born to Royce Onley and Elaine Carol (Steffen) Ashley. He was born on June 8, 1944, in Santa Ana, CA, where his parents were stationed while Royce was serving in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II.

Leon was baptized on July 9, 1944, at St. Peter’s American Evangelical Lutheran Church, Santa Ana. He confirmed his faith through the Rite of Confirmation on April 14, 1957, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Monett, MO. His confirmation verse was 1 Timothy 4:8, Godliness is profitable unto all things; having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.

Leon attended grade school in Fredericksburg, IA. In January of 1957, the family, which by then included four children, packed up their truck and a small trailer and moved to Monett, MO. They soon bought an 89-acre farm northwest of town, in the Pierce City School District. During his school years, Leon participated in FFA and 4-H, along with helping on the family farm. It was in his Senior year that Leon set a new school record in track in the mile run. He held that school record for 24 years. He completed his schooling with honors and graduated with the Class of 1962.

Leon was the oldest of five children, having four younger sisters, all of whom survive. They are: Lynda Endicott of Sarcoxie, MO; Carolyn Kleiboeker (Glennon) of Wentworth, MO; Eva Janine Gates (Billy) of Battlefield, MO; and Wynette Quade (Tony) of Carthage, MO.

Leon also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at McCormick-St. John’s Cemetery, Monett. Reverend Andrew Kennell will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the charity of your choice in care of the funeral home. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.