Charles Gary "Charlie" Leonard

Charles Gary (“Charlie”) Leonard, 66, of Carson Virginia passed on Monday, January 24, 2022. Born in San Antonio, Texas on August 4, 1955, he was the son of the Hazel Ann Horn Leonard and the late Melvin Temple Leonard.  Also preceded in death was his sister Deborah Leonard Morris and his brother Melvin Temple Leonard, Jr.

A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Charlie started his career in Sussex County Virginia where he met his wife, Helen.  They were married at Camp Rudolph in Sussex County at an outdoor ceremony August 2, 1980.

After working for a few years in the insurance and car industries, Charlie was employed by the Virginia Department of Health where he served as an environmental health specialist.   He won statewide recognition May 18, 2000 as Environmental Health Specialist of the Year.  His primary station was in Prince George County where he rose to the position of supervisor and served the public throughout the Crater Health District where he earned the respect of his colleagues, of those whom he mentored and the public across the Crater Health District.   He retired from state service August 1, 2018.

In addition to his professional career, he was a member of a music group, the “Gospel Story Tellers”.  Charlie was a naturally gifted musician, playing base guitar and upright base – his remarkable skill brought great joy to those who listened to the joyful music; Charlie was his happiest when he was playing music with his friends.  Throughout his life, Charlie had an unerring moral compass directing him to the right as God had given him to see the right.

He is survived by his wife, Helen Book Leonard and daughter, Jamie Marie Leonard; numerous nieces, nephews, other extended family members and many friends, colleagues and those whom he served throughout his career at the Virginia Department of Health.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at Salem United Methodist Church, 19312 Templeton Road, Carson VA 23830. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VCU Massey Cancer Center.