The Rev'd Tom Leonard

The Rev’d Thomas (Tom) Edgar Leonard
September 10, 1936-February 16, 2023

On behalf of Tom’s family, Saint Philip’s invites everyone to attend the funeral for faithful parishioner and affiliate clergy Fr Tom Leonard at 1:00pm on Friday, March 24.

Saint Philip’s was where Fr Tom began his career as an Episcopal priest and where he finished his ministry. He grew up in Walla Walla, Washington, the only son of Marie Snodgrass Leonard and Edgar Leonard before matriculating at the University of Oregon as an art student. The damp weather in Oregon prompted Tom to transfer to the University of Arizona where he met Annette Louise Williams—his wife and the mother of his children. Tom and Annette had five children: Stephen Leonard, Kevin Leonard, David Leonard, Rebecca Leonard (deceased) and Sean Leonard.

It was while at the University of Arizona that Tom realized his calling as an Episcopal priest. Upon graduation from the University, he attended the Church Divinity School of the Pacific. At the beginning of his career, Tom was an itinerant priest for small congregations in Show Low and Pinetop while residing in the Holbrook area.

Tom eventually returned to Tucson and Saint Philip’s in the Hills. He became the Vicar and eventually the Rector at Christ the King where he served for many years.

Tom and his second wife, Ines Pastor Leonard, left Arizona so Tom could serve as Rector at parishes in Boston and Livermore. When they returned to Arizona, Tom served the Episcopal church of St Bartholomew’s in Sun City. Upon his retirement, Tom and Ines resided in Tucson and Tubac.

Tom is survived by his sons, many grandchildren, and his step-daughter Melisa Kary Hart. His cremains will be interred in the Sanctuary Columbarium at Saint Philip’s.

For more information contact Stephen Leonard at sleonard5959@gmail.com.