Leroy Cleek

Leroy Cleek, age 84 of Kingsport, entered into eternal rest with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, November 23, 2016. Leroy was born on November 24, 1931 in Gate City, VA to the late John Henry Cleek and the late Tina Cleek. On September 22, 1951, Leroy married his most cherished friend and love of his life, Joan Brady, and after 65 years of a beautiful life together, she survives.

Leroy proudly served his country in the United States Air Force; where he quickly rose to the rank of staff sergeant. He was stationed in Azores where he played a key role on the flight line in the historical Berlin Airlift and his service carried over into the Korean War. It was in the Azores at Lajes Air Force Base where he met Joan, the Captain’s daughter; and from their first dance together, he knew he had met his dance partner for life.

Leroy loved golfing, fishing, hunting, and dancing. He was not only a member but a leader inside Colonial Heights Baptist Church for over 55 years where he was Chairman of the Deacons multiple times, a Sunday School teacher along with Joan to both youth and adults, a Royal Ambassador leader and a counselor to more church members and staff than can be counted. He cherished every moment with his family and friends inside the church that played an integral role in his life.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Joan Cleek; two sons, Don Cleek, Craig Cleek; one daughter, Linda Tanner; six grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one sister, Peggy McConnell; and his adopted cat “Bubba”.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 27, 2016, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Colonial Heights Baptist Church in Kingsport, Tennessee. The funeral service will immediately follow at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor David Salley and Pastor Greg Burton officiating.

Committal services will be held on Monday, November 28, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Memories Mausoleum at East Lawn Memorial Park, Kingsport, Tennessee. Military rites will be provided by American Legion Posts 3/265. Jerry Teague’s Sunday School Class will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Online condolences may be made to the Cleek family at www.eastlawnkingsport.com.

East Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park has the honor of serving the family. In lieu of flowers please donate Gideon bibles in honor of Mr. Cleek.