Augusta Tim Leonard

ROCKY MOUNT – Augusta “Tim” Leonard, age 76, went home to be with his Lord and Saviour on Friday, July 5, 2024. Born in Nash County, NC on September 26, 1947, he was the son of the late Russell C. Leonard and Catherine Rae Ayers Leonard. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Dalton Russell Leonard; and his sisters, Linda “Faye” Carney, Connie Gray Averette and Bonnie Rae Leonard.

Tim was a devout man who loved the Lord wholeheartedly. His favorite part of each day was to retreat upstairs to read, study, and pray. As it says in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” The Bible also proclaims, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand” (Revelation 1:3). Tim cherished his involvement with the Rock of Ages Prison Ministry, finding joy in serving the Lord by proclaiming God’s truth and aiding the lost in finding salvation. His love for his family was profound, especially for his bride, Phyllis, of 56 years and his daughter, Tammy, “Knot”, who was the apple of his eye. Knot found her best friend in Billy, who, after passing a few tests set by Tim, became dearly loved by him. Tim also had a deep friendship with Dave Grogan, forged before Dave’s call to lead Peoples Fellowship Baptist Church. Their bond strengthened over time, and Tim held a special affection for his pastor, church, and church family. As a truck driver, Tim spent over 20 years with Abbott Laboratories, building many cherished friendships along the way. He also delighted in creating memories with his family through horseback riding. Though Tim is no longer with us, we are reminded of the hope in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “The dead in Christ shall rise first” when Jesus returns. This scripture assures us that Christians who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour will also rise from the dead, just as He did. Tim was loved and adored by all who knew him.

Tim is survived by his wife of 56 years, Phyllis Gail Joyner Leonard; his daughter, Tammy Gail Leonard Johnson and husband, Billy Mark Johnson, of Rocky Mount; his brother, Jerry Lynn Leonard; and his sister, Catherine “Diane” Bailey.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Tim’s life will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Dave Grogan officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Visitation with the family will be from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.