Johnny Wayne Leonard

Johnny Wayne Leonard, 78, of Davidson County, passed away Friday morning, December 19, 2025, at the VA Medical Center in Salisbury.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, December 26, 2025, at Forest Hill Memorial Park.

Johnny was born on September 18, 1947, in Davidson County, to the late Elden “Son” Wayne Leonard and Mildred Bernice Walser Leonard. Upon finishing high school, he joined the Army and proudly served his country, choosing to make the sacrifice to preserve peace and freedom. After his time in the service, he worked until his retirement as a truck driver.

He worked hard throughout his life, whether it was in the Army, truck driving, or farming. His traditional values of diligence and perseverance were an example for those around him to follow and instilling these principles within his children and grandchildren was something in which he took great pride.

Johnny also enjoyed relaxing while watching Nascar and spending time with his dog, Buddy. Simple life at home surrounded by his family was the most precious way to spend his time and his grandchildren were the most important part of his life.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Sue Myers.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Judy Mae Leonard, of the home; daughters, Janine Varney (Russell), of Lexington, Jennifer Winger (Don), of Lexington, Julie Garrison, of Lexington, and Lauren Garrison; sons, Zeb Leonard, of Lexington, and Isaiah Leonard, of Lexington; brother, Jimmy Leonard, of Lexington; sisters, Betty Michael (Steve), of Greenville, NC, and Sylvia Hall (Lee), of Lexington; grandchildren, Kolton Varney, Korbin Varney, Wesley Varney (Tiffany), Alison Everhart (Shane), and Nathan Wingler; five great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salisbury VA,

CDCE Office (001-V)

W. G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical Center

Building 6, Room 1010

1601 Brenner Avenue

Salisbury, NC 28144

704-638-9000, ext. 13409