Leo Day 1926 - 2005

Leo Day was born Sept. 10, 1926, in Lamar, Mo. He died Sunday, March 6, 2005, in Cox South Hospital. He served his country in the Navy. He graduated from Southwest Missouri State University, held a Bachelor's Degree in mathematics, a Master's Degree in counseling, and began his working career as a math teacher and counselor. He received his Professional Engineering certification in 1964 and was a dedicated employee of the Missouri Highway Dept. for approximately 50 years. Mr. Day had been a Red Cross platelet donor since 1975, and served his church and community in various capacities throughout his lifetime. He was preceded in death by his parents, Van and Mabel (Thomas) Day, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and a special aunt, Goldie Crockett. Survivors include fiancé, Linda Cameron; cousins, Bonnie and Bob Samuels, Tom and Gail Day, Marlene and Harold Byous, Nancy and Pat DeCarlo, Bob and Fergie Wilkinson, and Jarel and Marilyn Wilkinson; and a great many friends whose lives he touched. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 11, 2005, in the Willard Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church in Willard, Mo. Visitation will be Thursday evening, March 10, from 6 to 9 p.m. in Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home, Springfield, Mo. Memorial contributions can be made to the church or charity of the donor's choice.

Memories

Leo always handed out apples and oranges to the kids at Christmas time.  Back in the good old days when my kids were little guys, we had a Christmas program at night and the Sunday school teachers had presents for their students under the tree. There were presents to the teachers from the kids. It was always such a fun evening.  But the highlight was Leo with the apples and the oranges.  My kids loved Leo and they were as saddened by his death as we all are.   

Leo ringing the Bell at the end of Sunday is such a vivid memory.  My kids were always so delighted when Leo let them Ring the bell. Leo loved Mt. Zion so very much. 

We will never forget him and I am so glad my children experienced his kindness, generosity and love. 

June Wollard