James Leonard

James M. Leonard, AKA "ROCK STAR", 79, died unexpectedly June 24, 2025, at his home, his sanctuary, and the home that he built for his beloved daughter with his own two hands. He was born May 12, 1946, in Bangor.

James graduated from Hampden Academy in 1964 and then went on to college in Presque Isle to learn Auto Body. Thereafter, he joined the Guard, where he discovered his knack for cooking. He worked with Forest Hart, his lifelong friend, on many projects. He created the beautiful stone bases of both Hampden Academy Broncos. His greatest joy was inviting the students to help with these creations. Forest and his wife, Sue Hart, have kept him on projects for over 30 years, as they shared a unique appreciation for each other's art. He will be leaving a huge hole in their hearts as well.

James' truest passion was his work as a Stone Mason, which he had done for over 50 years. He stated he 'never worked a day in his life' because, to him, it was a joy to lay rocks and make them into art for others to enjoy for years to come. He had a talent and work ethic that could not be matched. His honesty in his work and his life put him to a higher level than most and a notch above others in the field, he never lacked for work.

James found so much joy from his friends, church, the class of "64" and "horseshoe nights". He had many "girlfriends" who made him tea, shared their sweet treats, and spent their time with him. His more recent "Wednesday Night Cribbage Crew," gave him all the education he ever needed in life!

James leaves behind his most beloved and biggest piece of his heart to his daughter, Jeri Marie, also of Winterport; his mother-in-law, Eleanor Willey, of Hampden, whom he considered to be his mother, he loved her that much. He also leaves behind his brothers, Charles Leonard, of Lincoln, Edward Leonard, of Veazie; and sister, Evelyn Leonard, of Hampden. He was always so proud of nephew, Mark Leonard, of Veazie; as well as his granddaughter, Morgan Clements, of Loveland, Colorado, and her Mother Molly Rancourt; and many other nieces and nephews for all their accomplishments; friends, Rick and Ramona Mckinney, of Jay, who have accepted us as family for the holidays in past years and so graciously been there to support him in so many ways; dear friend, Shawn Meehan, who checked in with him every day; MANY bonus daughters, such as Heather Babcock, Georgia White and Kenisha Wiener. Although there was one VERY special one and stood out above all the rest, Holly Doyon, who truly stole his heart and treated him like her own Dad. She helped to make his final days so much brighter and fulfilled by giving back to others, which is what made his heart truly sing. I can't thank Holly and her family enough for loving him so much and I hope she knows that was reciprocated.

Gifts in James' memory may be made to Dixmont United Methodist Church, PO Box 65, Dixmont, ME. 04932

RIP Daddy, May the love and peace you found in life follow you to your final resting place.

A memorial reception will be held from 4-6pm, Sunday, July 27, 2025 at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center Street, Bangor.