Lewis James “Jim” Leonard, 78, of Murphy died Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2012 in Union General Hospital in Blairsville, GA. He was a native of Johnson City, TN, but had moved to West Palm Beach, FL while he was a student in high school. He had attended Palm Beach High School and graduated Class of 1954. Jim worked for Florida Power and Light for 38 years before retiring in 1992.  Jim and his wife have shared their time between Florida and Murphy since 1976. Mr. Leonard attended Ranger United Methodist Church. Jim volunteered at the Ranger Community Center organizing and playing Bingo.

He was the son of the late Lewis James and Helen Leonard. He was preceded in death by a brother, George Leonard.

Surviving are his loving and caring wife of 54 years, JoAnn Leonard; two daughters, Debra Balle of Sarasota, FL and Kathy Watts and husband, Steve of Vero Beach, FL; a son, Michael Leonard of Archer, FL; two sisters, Joan Mousel and husband, Don of Palm Springs, FL and Sue Rankin of Port St. Lucie, FL; a brother, Jack Leonard and wife, Sue of Stuart, FL; four grandchildren, Brandon and Lauren Balle, and Timmy and Brett Watts; a great grandson, Austin Watts; and a sister-in-law, Norma Leonard of Hayesville, wife of the late George Leonard.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Ivie Funeral Home, Murphy in charge of arrangements.