DELMAR - William Franklin Leonard died Saturday, April 7, 2018, at Coastal Hospice At The Lake in Salisbury, surrounded by his family. Born on Tilghman Island, he was the oldest son of the late William T. Leonard and R. Bernice Sweitzer Leonard of St. Michaels.
He served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 through 1963 aboard the aircraft carriers Valley Forge and Intrepid. He was maintenance supervisor for several years at Ralston Purina and Red White Mills, construction supervisor at O.A. Newton and hotel maintenance for several hotel properties. He was an active member and past commander of VFW Posts 8276 and 194. He was also a member of Forest Grove -- Salisbury Old School Baptist Church in Parsonsburg.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Helen Jean Leonard; daughters, Teresa King and Susan J. Disharoon; sons, Gary W. Leonard and John E. Leonard; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Albert E. "Bud" Leonard of West Chester, Pa.; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Arline Schultz; and a brother, Larry D. Leonard.
A memorial service was held Friday, April 13, 2018, at Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Interment will be private and held at a later date.