Murphys, CA…James Ralph Leonard passed away on Oct. 27, at home with his family after a valiant battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Louise Leonard; 3 daughters (and 3 son-in-laws) Kelly Stoffan (and John), Karen Borg (and Bill), Kathy Leonard (and Jesse); 8 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and brother Lawrence Leonard (and Norene). He will also be dearly missed by Mark Leonard (and Christy).

Jim, as he was known by most, was born Sept. 6, 1942 in Stockton, CA, to the late Lewis and Jimmie Leonard. He was raised with his 2 brothers, older brother Lewis (Bo) and younger brother Lawrence (Larry) in Sonora, CA. In 1960, he graduated from Sonora High School where he excelled as an athlete. After high school, Jim attended Sacramento City College, playing center for their basketball team.

Jim and Louise married in 1963 and moved to Antioch, CA, where they raised their 3 daughters and spent the next 33 years. Shortly after moving to Antioch, Jim began working at Dow Chemical in Pittsburg, CA, until he retired in 1996, when he and Louise moved to Murphys, CA.

Jim continued playing sports throughout his life in Antioch, participating in various softball and basketball leagues. He was known for his quick wit and enjoyed playing pool, helping others, and being with his family. Jim was a member of the Murphys-Angels Lions Club and briefly served as their treasurer.

There will be a memorial service Saturday, 11/12/16, at 2:00 PM at the Murphys Lions Club, 98 School Street, in Murphys, CA, 95247. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Murphys-Angels Lions Club or Hospice of Amador & Calaveras.