E. L. Leonard Sr. (February 22, 1948 – February 28, 2026) E. L. Leonard Sr., affectionately known as “Big E” and “#1,” was born on February 22, 1948, in Hampton, Arkansas. He peacefully departed this life on February 28, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas.

E. L. dedicated more than 35 years of his life to education as a respected history and health teacher and coach. Throughout his career he served students in several schools including Forest Brook, Karnack, Caldwell, and Humble. A passionate supporter of athletics, he coached football, basketball, and track and field, while also contributing his leadership to volleyball and tennis programs. He ultimately retired from Humble High School after a long and impactful career shaping the lives of young people.

He attended Shorter Junior College before continuing his education at Paul Quinn College, where he graduated in 1975. During his time there he joined and helped establish a chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., forming lifelong bonds of brotherhood. As a devoted historian, E. L. maintained a deep respect for history, culture, and the study of all religions.

E. L. was married to the love of his life, Myra Nell Williams Leonard, for more than 38 years until her passing in 2020. The two met while teaching together at Forest Brook High School. Earlier in life he was married to Jamesetta Tabor, and from that union two children were born.

Those who knew E. L. knew that laughter followed him wherever he went. Known to many simply as “Big E,” the nickname reflected not only his presence but the enormous heart he carried for his family and friends. He believed life was meant to be lived with joy, humor, and good company.

Every summer, whenever he could, he gathered cousins, nieces, and nephews and brought them back to Texas for weeks at a time—giving their parents a well-deserved break while creating memories and bonds that would last a lifetime. Those summers became a cherished tradition and a testament to the love he had for family.

If you ever sat down with Big E to play dominoes, you quickly learned two things: he was going to talk plenty of smack, and he was probably going to win. His laughter, competitive spirit, and storytelling made every gathering unforgettable.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: E. L. Leonard Jr. of Houston, Texas; Autumn Leonard of San Antonio, Texas; and Christeen Williams of Houston, Texas; and his brother, Arthur Lee “Lynn” Leonard of Tampa, Florida.

He was a proud grandfather to Charles Leonard-Batiste, Carmen Thomas, Cherish Leonard, Chosen Leonard, E. L. Leonard III, Carlie Williams, and Elle Denise Leonard.

He is also survived by his loving aunts: Ruby Newton (Leroy); Carrie Igwe (Harrison) of Farmington, Michigan; and Lee Birda “Tannie” Leonard of Warrensville Heights, Ohio; and his uncles: Dale Moore (Gale), Delton Moore (Hazel), and Doyle Moore (Clara).

He also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, former students, colleagues, and dear friends who adored him deeply and will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

E. L. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Myra Nell Williams Leonard; his grandparents, Ruthie Lee Collins Moore and David L. Moore Sr. (“Hawk”); his parents, Daisy Lee Moore Leonard Lee and Scottie Leonard Sr.; his siblings, Scottie Leonard Jr. and Dianne Moore Starks; and his uncles, Dan Moore and David Moore Jr. (“Buddy”).

Though Big E may no longer be with us in body, his spirit, laughter, and larger-than-life love will continue to echo through every story told, every domino played, and every life he helped shape.

Homegoing Celebration, Saturday, March 14, 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 6080 Calhoun 263, Hampton, Arkansas.