Steven Douglas Leonard
Steven Douglas Leonard, age 68, of Roanoke Virginia, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on July 24, 2026. He was the loving husband of Elizabeth A. (Henry) Leonard; together they shared 40 years of marriage.
Steven was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 4, 1957, the son of the late Patricia (Leonard) Goodloe. A proud graduate of the United States Airforce Academy, he was subsequently commissioned as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. Steven served as a Flight Commander, receiving multiple awards, medals and ribbons, before retiring with distinction in 1986. Following his military service, Steven transitioned to the civilian sector, working for defense companies, Honeywell, ITT, and Harris Company. Two of his projects of note were the SINCGAR (combat-net radio) and night-vision goggles. After his 2013 retirement as Vice President of Operations, he served as a consultant.
Steven was a loving son, husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed sports, the beach, traveling, and being with his family. Steven was a devoted fan of Ohio State University Buckeyes, Indiana University Hoosiers, University of Dayton Flyers, U.S. Air Force Academy Falcons, and the Cleveland Browns.
In addition to his loving wife, Elizabeth (Liz), Steven is survived by his son, the Rev. Matthew Folkemer-Leonard and wife, the Rev. Deacon Margaret Folkemer-Leonard, his daughter, Jessica Leonard, his grandchildren, Clara and Gordon Folkemer-Leonard, and his sister, Donna Tyus (Dayton, Ohio), and numerous other loving family members.
A funeral service in celebration of Steven’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Simpson Funeral Home Chapel, 3912 Electric Road Roanoke, VA 24018, with the Rev. David Derrick officiating.
The Leonard Family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Blue Ridge Cancer Care, Good Samaritan Hospice, especially hospice nurse Rebekah, and everyone who supported the family this past year with love and kindness. We appreciate you.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Steven’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Angels of Assisi, Roanoke VA. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Electric Road Chapel. (540)632-4200.
