Leonard Steed Obituary

Leonard Beasley Steed, Jr.
Jackson - No services are planned for Leonard Beasley Steed, Jr., 96, who entered into rest December 22, 2023, following an extended illness with Parkinson's disease.
Mr. Steed was born September 28, 1927, in Appling, GA to the late Leonard Beasley Steed and Fannie Lou Dunn Steed. Following the death of his mother at three years of age, "Junior", as he was known by his family and friends, was raised by his beloved grandparents, James Leonard and Lillie Mae Beasley Steed. Mr. Steed graduated from Ellenton High School in 1945, the same year obtaining his pilot's license, and graduated from Paris Island Marine Corps Depot. Mr. Steed served his country active duty WWII in the Sixth Marine Corps Division in Tsingtao, China. He served both active duty and reserves from 1945-1957, obtaining the rank of Staff Sargent. After his service to his country, Mr. Steed worked as a heavy equipment operator at the Savannah River Site and for civilian contractors as well. In 1950 he married Margaret Louise Jansen. Mr. Steed built the Jackson Drag Strip, operating the facility from 1957 until 1983. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, camping and aviation.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents; son; Leonard Mark Steed; granddaughter, Laurie Ann; brothers, LTC Emil Edwin Steed and Rev. James Chance Steed.
Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Margaret J. Steed; son, Kim Jansen Steed; great-grandchildren, Thomas Proctor and Brooklyn Proctor; sister, Betty Lou Steed McGahee; brothers, Ronald Martin Steed, Stephen Keith Steed and Gregory Sidney Steed.