Billy Dale Leonard

Billy Dale "Bill" Leonard peacefully left his earthly home on September 11, 2026, in Nocona, Texas, surrounded by his loving family.

Bill was born on November 4, 1927, in Nocona to John Roy and Violet (Tatum) Leonard. Though he traveled and moved throughout his life, he always called Nocona home. During his senior year of high school, Bill was called upon to serve his country in World War II. A few years later, he was called upon again, this time serving as a medic in the Army during the Korean War.

In 1952, while returning home from his service in the Far East, Bill found himself in a frightening situation that was reported in the Nocona News. He was aboard a Pan American transport plane scheduled to land at Wake Island when the aircraft encountered what was described at the time as the worst typhoon in Pacific history. After the pilots made repeated attempts to land but were unable to do so, they turned toward Eniwetok. The plane landed safely with only 15 minutes of fuel remaining. Bill was understandably thankful to make it home safely to Texas-and certainly had a story to tell when he did.

After the war, Bill married the love of his life, Betty (Pope), on May 1, 1954. Betty was always Bill's number-one priority. He genuinely believed in the saying, "Happy wife, happy life," and he lived it to a "T"! Together, Bill and Betty built a loving family and shared 56 faithful years of marriage.

Bill worked hard throughout his life to provide for his family, including working for many years as a manager selling oil field supplies for Bethlehem Steel. After retiring, Bill continued serving his community by opening a grocery store with his wife and son. Called "Mike and Mom's," the store served the Nocona community for many years.

When he was not working, he enjoyed spending time outdoors, particularly gardening, birdwatching, and fishing. He put up a great outdoor Christmas light display every year and loved the bluebonnets he nurtured in his yard.

Bill also believed in serving his community. He served for many years on the North Montague County Water Supply District, helping to ensure that his community maintained a clean and sufficient water supply.

Bill's family always knew they were his greatest pride and joy. He was quick to serve, put others first, and ask about others before ever talking about himself. He had a great memory and loved keeping up with all his family and friends. His kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others were a blessing to everyone who knew him.

Bill and Betty raised four loving children. Betty preceded Bill in death in 2010, after 56 years of faithful marriage. Bill was also preceded in death by his daughter, Elecia Chancellor; son, Mike Leonard; and grandson, Gary Leonard Jr.

Bill is survived by his sons, Gary Leonard and Mark Leonard (and wife, Amy); son-in-law, Willie Chancellor; daughter-in-law, Debbie Bland; grandchildren, Kari Jones, Kurtis Chancellor, Kayla Hyden, Tony Chancellor, Kris Leonard, Brandon Leonard, Shane Leonard, Kasey Patrick, Kandi Leonard, Madeline Leonard, and Dana Wine; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Bill's funeral will be held Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel Baptist Church in Nocona, with Pastor Matt Summers officiating and under the direction of Scott-Morris Funeral Home. Bill's family will receive visitors at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, immediately before the funeral.

Bill's smile, humor, joy, and servant's heart will forever be remembered by all who were blessed to know and love him.