Leonard Edwin James

Leonard Edwin James, 90, passed away on August 4, 2008, at Mountain View Hospital in Payson, Utah, having been surrounded by family for his last few days. Leonard was born on Oct. 29, 1917, on the family farm in Daniels, Idaho, the son of Edwin and Mary Crowther James. He grew up in Logan where he graduated from Utah State University. He played basketball, leading his team to the NCAA playoffs and also excelled in track. Leonard married his college sweetheart, Beth Stewart, in the Salt Lake Temple on Sept. 3, 1941. Beth passed away in 1999. Leonard lovingly took care of her at home for her last 3 years after she suffered a stroke. Leonard and Beth are the parents of three daughters.



Leonard taught physical education before joining the Army during World War II. During the war, he served as a flight clerk in the South Pacific bringing back wounded soldiers to the states. From California, Leonard and Beth moved back to Utah buying a business and making Springville their home. After 35 years, Leonard retired from his business, Provo Office Equipment located on Center Street in Provo.



Leonard faithfully served in many leadership positions in the LDS Church including bishop, high councilman and a counselor in the stake presidency. For over 25 years he served in the Provo Temple, 20 of those years as a sealer. Leonard joyfully performed temple weddings for 8 of his grandchildren. He and Beth helped fund missions for many of their grandchildren who served in all parts of the world.



In 1980, Leonard was awarded The Silver Beaver Award honoring his many years of service in scouting. Leonard served for 8 years on the Springville City Council as the councilman over parks and recreation. From serving in this capacity, he leaves a living legacy to his adopted hometown of Springville. It was under his direction that the first 9 holes of the Hobble Creek Golf Course were built. Leonard helped organize and was the first chairman of Art City Days.



Leonard's family has always been his first joy and concern and he is greatly loved. He always had time for family. His support and love have been a foundation and a source of strength for all family members.



Leonard is survived by his 3 daughters: Cindy (Allen) Lambert, Ithaca, NY; Pat (Wayne) Hall, Springville; Debbie (Kevin) Stephenson, Spanish Fork; his 12 grandchildren: Lori (Evan) Vance, Matt (Shannan) Hall, Chad (Kami) Hall, Brett Hall, Jeff (Shannon) Hall, Scott Hall; Creed (Heather) Stephenson, Amanda (Keith) Gurney, Ashley (David) Barnett, Jordan Stephenson, Enoch Lambert, Sara (Dan) Muir and 16 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Faye Crockett of Logan, and Stewart brothers and sisters in laws. He was preceded in death by his wife, Beth, his parents, and 3 sisters.



The family wishes to convey our heartfelt thanks to Dr. William LeRoy for his many years of professional care. Our thanks also goes to Sherree Reynolds, home nurse, the staffs at Reid's Park Place, Hearthstone Manor, Payson Rehab, and Mountain View Hospital.



Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 11, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. in the Springville Stake House at 245 S. 600 E. There will be a viewing on Sunday evening, August 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 E. 200 S., Springville and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.