Irma Gale Abbott Smith Leonard

Irma Gale Abbott Smith Leonard, born January 12, 1946, in Bedford, Virginia, peacefully passed away on June 24, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of the late Bill Abbott and Dealie B. Wood Abbott. Irma was preceded in death by her first husband, Larry Milton Smith Sr., and her second husband, Dewey Lee Leonard. She was also predeceased by her grandparents, Joseph B. Wood and Mattie Blanche Hodges Wood, Robert Lloyd Abbott and Bertha May Wilson Abbott, her granddaughter, Ashley Diehl Clark, and her great-granddaughter, Sydney Clark. Irma is survived by her loving children: Darlene Jamerson (Mike), Angela Thomas, Larry M. Smith Jr. (Ronda), and Serena Diehl (Randy). She is also survived by her dear sister, Katherine Faye Jarvis, nine cherished grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Irma's greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren. She had a passion for cooking, playing card games, and putting together puzzles, especially those with tropical bird themes. She loved traveling, particularly to the beach and Tennessee, and had a deep love for the Lord and the Bible. As a pastor’s wife, she dedicated her life to serving the Lord, helping anyone in need with a heart of gold. Irma especially treasured her visits to the Fields of the Wood in Murphy, NC. Funeral services will be held at Whitten Timberlake Chapel in Lynchburg, Virginia, on July 1, 2024, at 11 AM, with a visitation one hour prior at 10 AM. The service will be officiated by Pastor Jeff Rhea, Pastor Gary Vernon, and Pastor David Cash. Burial will take place at Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Bedford, Virginia. Whitten Timberlake Chapel is assisting the family during this difficult time.