Lenox Elwin Word

Lenox Elwin Word, age 84, a long time resident of Rockford, IL, passed peacefully April 9, 2019, in Peoria, AZ. He was born May 5, 1934, in Detroit, MI, the youngest of three children born to William and Zell Word. Lenny, a.k.a “Skinny Lenny from Detroit”, was proud to be a Detroit native. He was a mischievous but brave young boy who would often go into his basement with his cap guns to shoot the monsters that lived there. He served in the US Navy from 1951 – 1955 during the Korean war, a “Tin Can Sailor” aboard the USS Robert K. Huntington (DD-781) destroyer. His tour of duty also took him to France, Italy, Spain, and Greece and remained one his most precious memories. Upon returning home Lenny became a truck driver. He worked for Robert Hansen Trucking for many years as well as other firms. His work took him to every state in the US.

Personable and a little quirky, Lenny had a good sense of humor. He was a crooner, loved to dance, and often was the life of the party. He enjoyed off-track betting and stopping in Mesquite, NV to gamble.

Lenny was chivalrous and respectful of others, especially his mother and his wife, Jacquelynne. He was steadfast in keeping his word and taught his children to do the same. He loved being “Papa Lenny” and was so proud of his son Quinn for his service in the US Navy.

Lenny is survived by his sons, Quinn Coats (Kim), Lance Coats, and Robert Alar; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Zell Adams; step-father, James Adams; wife, Jacquelynne Word; and sisters, Mildred and Norma.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, April 19, 2019, at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85338. The family suggests that donations be made to GarySiniseFoundation.org.