Joseph Frances (Bubba) Leonard III, 64, resident of Kerrville, died on April 11, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer. He died at his home in the company of those who loved him.
Bubba was born December 3, 1954 in Houston, Texas to Joseph F. Leonard Jr and Dorothy Helen Chandler Leonard. His family moved to Kerrville in 1955 and he spent his childhood there. He was an avid athlete from his early days at Camp Stewart through sports at Tivy High School and more recently as a proud supporter of the Kroc Center. After graduating from Tivy in 1973 he moved to Austin, Texas to attend the University of Texas. He made Austin his home for many years before moving to San Marcos, Texas. Bubba really loved the San Marcos River and he had a wide circle of good friends and “scuba diving buddies” in that area. In 2010 he returned to Kerrville to be near his family.
Bubba was a strong and proud man. His life was an unconventional one full of travel and adventure. He loved the outdoors and was never happier than when he was on the water. He was a great storyteller, a loyal friend to those who were fair with him, and he never met a dog he could not charm. He will be deeply missed by those who loved him.
His faithful companion, Chester Dawg, was with him to the end.
Bubba is survived by his sister, Diane Oehler (Peter Steeghs) and his brother, James Kelly Leonard (Georganne). Also by his niece, Dr. Elizabeth Oehler (Leigh Ann) and nephews, Paul-Joseph Oehler, Andrew Leonard, Colin Leonard, and Reese Leonard.
He wanted no funeral. Family and close friends will hold a celebration of his life and, when summer comes, his ashes will be scattered in the rivers and oceans that he loved.
The family wishes to thank Peterson Hospice. Memorials in his memory can be sent to Peterson Hospice or Freeman-Fritts Animal Shelter.
Condolences may be sent at Grimes Funeral Chapels' website by selecting the “Send Condolences” link.
Arrangements are entrusted to Grimes Funeral Chapels of Kerrville.
