James Edmund Leonard 98 years old passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Pleasant Plains, Staten Island, NY. Later, he moved to Saddlebrook where he began his family with his lovely wife Theresa. He then moved to Toms River, NJ to raise his family where they could enjoy the shore. James served in the Army during World War II and the Korean conflict. He retired from the Air Force at the rank of Master Sergeant. James worked several insurance companies early on in his career and then was employed by the New Jersey Treasury Department, retiring as a Special Agent. James was a family man and dedicated to his wife Theresa. They both enjoyed living in Bradenton, FL taking many cruises and bus trips, as well as walking on the beaches.

Predeceased by his loving wife Theresa, his parents Edmund and Margaret Leonard, his brothers Robert Leonard and Gregory Leonard and grandson John Mark Leonard.

James is survived by his sons, Stephen Leonard and wife Lynn and Michael Leonard and wife Christine, daughters Donna Mutter and Judy Somers and husband Brian. 10 Grandchildren Jessie Bayer and husband Ronnie, Daniel Mutter and wife Adria, Erica Leonard and wife Morisa, Michael Somers, Sarah Mutter, Melissa Mutter, Matthew Somers and wife Kaylee, Megan Metta and husband Danny, David Leonard and wife Samantha and Chad Leonard. 10 Great grandchildren Madison, Molly, Maisey Somers, Noah, Cali, Nico Somers, Violet Mutter, Mila and Christian Metta, John Mark Leonard.

Visitation will take place on Monday, March 10, 2025 from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 at Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Avenue, Toms River. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 9:00 am at St. Justin's Roman Catholic Church, 975 Fischer Boulevard, Toms River. Interment to follow.