Bert J. Leonard

May 25, 1930 – July 13, 2026

Bert J. Leonard, 96, passed away peacefully into the presence of God on July 13, 2026, while residing at Jackson & Company Senior Living in Searcy, Ark.

Born in Ohiowa, Neb., Bert lived a full, active and adventurous life. As a young boy, he weathered the famous “Black Sunday” dust storm during the Dust Bowl and survived a flood that washed mud through his family home—an event that prompted their move to Wyoming. His work took him to Wyoming, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. He retired to spend summers in Ten Sleep, Wyo. and winters in Sun City West, Ariz. Bert always held a special place in his heart for Wyoming and truly considered it home. Eventually, he and the love of his life, Dolores, relocated to Searcy, Ark., to be near family.

Bert’s life was packed with incredible experiences. During the Korean Conflict, he served in Rome, Italy, as a loadmaster, drop master, engineer and instructor. Afterward, he spent his civilian career with Pacific Power, starting as a lineman—where he impressively survived high-voltage electrocution, twice—and worked his way up through the ranks to ultimately become Vice President of Operations for Wyoming and Montana.

An avid outdoorsman, Bert was a skilled hunter with a rifle, handgun, and bow. In his younger years, hunting wasn’t simply a sport; it was how he provided for his family. His sharp eye and talent with a bow earned him several archery competition titles over the years.

If something was broken, Bert was the man to call. He was completely in his element as a handyman, fixing anything around the home or church building. Getting to help others with a repair project gave him immense joy, and he was always generous with his time and skill.

Above all else, Bert’s greatest two joys were his faith and his family. He served faithfully in the Church throughout his adult life as a preacher, teacher, song leader, elder, and resident “fix-it” man. Married for 65 wonderful years to his sweetheart, Dolores, Bert’s devotion to his family was unwavering. In the final weeks of his earthly life, Bert spoke often of his desire to “go home”—and his family took great comfort in knowing he meant his ultimate home with God.

Bert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dolores Stengl Leonard; his parents; two sisters, Patty Hockett and June Cordray; and his granddaughter, Alicia Smith.

He is survived by his daughter, Donna Jo Miller and her husband, Robin, of Searcy, Ark.; his son, Paul Leonard and his wife, Debbie, of Tontitown, Ark.; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, along with many dear friends.

A private service for the family will be held at a later date.