Russell Leonard Obituary

Russell Roy Leonard, 87, of Arbor Landing at Pawleys Island, South Carolina, and formerly of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026.

Born on March 22, 1938, in Northampton, Massachusetts, Russ was the son of the late Walter R. Leonard and Helen Kellogg Leonard. He was raised in Massachusetts and graduated from Williamsburg High School before earning his degree from the University of Massachusetts in 1960.

Russ dedicated 36 years of his professional career to MassMutual Life Insurance Company, where he served as Director of Underwriters before his retirement. Following retirement, he and his beloved wife moved to South Carolina, where they enjoyed many happy years together.

An avid athlete throughout his life, Russ played on MassMutual league teams in softball, bowling, and basketball. He especially loved the game of golf and was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves. In retirement, he enjoyed traveling and spending time on the golf course. When he was no longer able to participate in sports, he found pleasure in making Lego's and jigsaw puzzles and watching sports on television.

Russ proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was a member of Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church and a former member of the Litchfield Country Club.

Above all, Russ was devoted to his family. He shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joan Foskitt Leonard. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Greg Leonard (Paula) of Winter Garden, Florida; his daughters, Jennifer Cowles (Craig) of Springfield, Massachusetts, and Lisa Bryant (Tim) of Falmouth, Maine; his grandchildren, Chris and Jeff Leonard, Alison, Brian, and Sarah Cowles, and Sean, Jack, and Lauren Bryant; and his great-grandchildren, Marian, Luca, and Lucy. He is also survived by his sister, Elinor Dole of Massachusetts.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 16 at 1:00 p.m. at Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church 9967 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC, 29585

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pawleys Island Presbyterian Church, 9967 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC, or to Tidelands Community Hospice, 2591 North Fraser Street, Georgetown, SC 29440.

Russ will be remembered for his steady presence, love of sports, and deep devotion to his family and friends.

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guest book, visit www.burroughsfh.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Service (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.