Leon Charles Neece

Leon Charles Neece, loving husband and father, passionate educator, devoted Christian, avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and kind-hearted soul passed away February 11, 2020 while in hospice care at Lawrence Hall Nursing Center in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas. He was born October 17, 1936 in Powhatan, Arkansas to the late Leo Jackson and Mary Baldridge Neece. A sister, Margaret Downing Barry, preceded him in death. His devotion to his family and firm belief in God gave him strength and peace throughout his life. Leon graduated from Black Rock High school in 1954. After graduating from Arkansas State University, he received a master’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, and a specialist degree from Arkansas State University. While attending Black Rock High School, he fell in love with the late Norma Jean Wier, his beloved wife of 55 years. They married on December 24,1954, and had two children, Norman Leon and the late Kenny Ray. Leon loved his family more than anything, and instilled strong values in his children. In his professional career, education was Leon’s passion. Teaching math and life skills was his heart. He taught at Lynn, Paragould, and Walnut Ridge High Schools. In 1973 he became the Principal at WRHS. He later became Principal at Beebe and eventually retired from the profession at Highland. In 1990 Leon was named Arkansas Principal of the Year. He was selected by his peers for the honor. He was invited to the White House where First Lady Barbara Bush presented the award. It was one of the highlights of Leon’s career. After the recognition Leon said, “You cannot win awards without good students, good teachers and good community support.” Committed to education for 32 years, he enjoyed his profession immensely even through some times of challenge and headaches. Leon once stated, “My greatest rewards are seeing our young men and women grow up and become good and productive citizens in our community.” He was very proud of his students; he loved them all. Leon’s teaching extended beyond the classroom. He led by example. He always provided love and support to anyone. He never met a stranger. He was accepting, forgiving, loving and kind. He modeled his life after the Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. Leon participated in and led many organizations, some of which were: The Boy Scouts, First United Methodist Church of Walnut Ridge, Walnut Ridge City Council, Walnut Ridge Pool Manager, Kiwanis Club, Little league, and Pony League Baseball. He was a member of the Aurora Masonic Lodge 423, a member of the Arkansas Association of Secondary School Principals and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. He served on the board of the Lawrence Memorial Health Foundation and was Vice President of Lawrence Hall Resident Council. Leon enjoyed many hobbies. He was a pilot, golfer, basketball referee, softball player and traveler. He enjoyed playing bingo at Lawrence Hall and was a strategic checker player. He was also an avid baseball fan. His passion for the St. Louis Cardinals was renown. During their retirement Leon and Norma visited all the MLB parks in the US and Canada and would frequent spring training in Florida and Phoenix. Leon also frequented the friendly confines of Wrigley Field in Chicago. While living their best life, Leon and Norma traveled to all 50 states and 15 countries enjoying every moment. Leon’s legacy will continue on through his son, Norman Leon Neece, and many beloved nieces, nephews, family, friends and students. He leaves those behind rich in love and memories. A celebration of life was held at the First United Methodist Church in Walnut Ridge followed by interment at the Powhatan cemetery. Pallbearers were Jennings Smith Jr, Gabriel Guthrie, Ben Robert Bush, Dudley Bassett, John Bland and Randy Golden. The service was led by Reverend Beth Perdue of the First United Methodist Church and Pastor Tim Campbell of the First Free Will Baptist Church. Eulogies were given by Norma Smith, Robert Engelken and Ken Ehrke. Special music was provided by Jeff Taylor and FUMC Choir assisted by surrounding community churches. Leon Neece will be dearly missed.

Leon Charles Neece

October 17, 1936 - February 11, 2020