Tybee Island

After a valiant fight with pseudobulbar palsy, Gloria Leonard passed away on November 11, 2021.  She was 88 years old.  Gloria was an inspiration until the very end as she battled this insidious disease with grace and determination. She spent her final years with her devoted daughter and son-in-law on the Back River surrounded by those she loved. PLS may have stolen her voice, but it could not take her spirit!  

Gloria’s birth to John and Helen Remion on March 11, 1933 was the beginning of an extraordinary life.  Along with her siblings Johnny and Joyce, she grew up in a close family who valued strong work ethics, loyalty, and service.  Both her large extended family and the tight knit community of Thunderbolt helped shape Gloria’s life. Gloria grew into a woman of true beauty, whose heart reflected her incredible smile and sparkling eyes. She attended Thunderbolt Elementary and graduated from Savannah High School and Armstrong Junior College.  

Gloria embraced life with an enthusiasm and energy that left others in awe.  Never one to just piddle on the sidelines of life, she gave it her all, all the time. If you were family, you were gold in Gloria’s eyes. She was the family caregiver and took loving care of her parents and siblings. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She hosted countless Sunday dinners and holiday meals that would put the finest chefs to shame. If you wanted something done and done right, you knew to just ask Gloria. She didn’t just volunteer, she was a leader and mentor. She became a master cake decorator after taking a class on a whim. Gloria took great joy in the beauty of life and loved butterflies, birds, and her stunning gardens.  

After working for the Central Railroad of Georgia, American Cyanamid, and Continental Can, Gloria found her dream job when she went to work for Dr. Ronald Fagin. She worked as his office manager for over 30 years and enjoyed wonderful relationships with Dr. Fagin, her coworkers, and the patients. Gloria also worked at the bingo games operated by her late sister. 

Gloria was an active member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church for 40 years before joining Trinity Lutheran Church. At Trinity, Gloria was involved in almost every aspect of the church, especially the annual Novemberfest. As part of a group of master crafters, Gloria often chaired the event and made lifelong friends in the process. After moving to the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Gloria served on the altar guild and Backpack Buddy committees. Her faith was an integral part of her life as she used her gifts to serve others. The life she lived was a testament to her faith.

Gloria was a lifelong advocate for animals and was instrumental in the transformation of the Humane Society for Greater Savannah. Along with her sister, Joyce, and other dedicated volunteers, she worked tirelessly to raise funds to better the conditions for animals in our community. Gloria was a member of the Board of Directors and served as the president for many years. She remained active with the Pick of the Litter Thrift Shop and served as a member of the thrift shop board. Gloria made some of her dearest friends while working to improve the lives of God’s creatures.

Gloria was predeceased by her parents, husband Harold “Rocky” Leonard, siblings Joyce McDowell (Henry), brother John Remion, and niece Cecelia Coggins. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law Kathryn and Steve Williams, son and daughter-in-law John “Sparky” and Lisa Leonard, grandchildren Adam and his wife Brooke Boston, Stephen and his partner Margaret Iocovocci, Stephanie Garcia and her husband Tony, and Matthew Leonard. Gloria is also survived by her nephew Hank McDowell, his wife Lauren and his children Nicole and Sean. Gloria also leaves behind many cousins and great grands and nephews.

The family is extremely grateful to Liz and Pat of Hospice Savannah and caregiver, Ann Jacobs, for their loving and devoted care during the last year.

A celebration of the life of Gloria Remion Leonard will be held on Sunday, November 21, 2021 at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer at 2 pm. Please send memorials to the Humane Society for Greater Savannah or the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer.