The Richmond News, Mar. 22, 2024

Aug. 18, 1936 – March 12, 2024

David Leakey

David Earl Leakey, 87, of Richmond passed away peacefully March 12, 2024, at his home. David was born Aug. 18, 1936, in Kansas City to John Irl and Clara Mae (Edgar) Leakey. He was the last of nine children. David spent most of his childhood and adult years in and around Carroll and Ray counties. He graduated in 1956 from Norborne High School.

Shortly thereafter, he enlisted and served proudly in the U.S. Army and then in the National Guard. David received Rifle and Carbine Sharpshooter, and Good Conduct medals while honorably serving his country.

David was united in marriage on March 2, 1963, to Jacqueline R. Smith in Carrollton. To this union, David and Jackie were blessed with two sons, David E. Leakey and J. Todd Leakey.

David was a member of Hardin American Legion Post 487.

He retired from Ford Motor Co. in April 1991 following a 30-year career as a member of United Auto Workers Local 249.

David’s greatest enjoyment was spent raising livestock on his farm, including cattle, swine and chickens, and tending his garden. He loved to prepare a meal grown fully on the farm. He looked forward to hunting and fishing.

He was an avid football and Kansas City Chiefs fan, and loved Western movies and country music.

David was an extremely devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and made many memories while involved in their activities and accomplishments. His pets, including Pippi and Smiley, were his constant companions. He never hesitated to lend a hand to his family, friends, neighbors or fellow farmers.

Survivors include his wife, Jackie, of the home; son and daughter-in-law, David (Kim) Leakey of Richmond; and son and daughter-in-law, J. Todd (Kathy) of Hardin.

Other survivors include his grandsons, Cole (Abby) Leakey and Shane Leakey; granddaughters, Stephanie (Jesse) Hughes and Nakisha Leakey; great-grandchildren, Kobe, Kora and Kashlyn Hughes, and Ryland Smith; brother-in-law, Robert “Bob” Ritzinger; and beloved dog, Pippi. David also is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Everett and Adaline (Allmon)Smith; siblings and their spouses, Stella Mae (Lon) Garoutte, Ruth Leakey, Frances (Floyd) Bugg, Earline (Earl) Hawkins, Naomi (Floyd) Weisz, Mildred (Gilbert) Buhrmeister, William “Bill” (Erlene) Leakey and Bonnie (Clarence “Punk”) Heil; and sisterin-law, Janet Ritzinger.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Ray County. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 18, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. A private family memorial graveside service will be held at a later date in Wakenda Cemetery, north of Hardin, where David will be laid to rest by his grandsons, Cole Leakey and Shane Leakey. A celebration of David’s life will be announced in the near future.

Please share your memories of David with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.