Rose Elaine Leonard

May 21, 1947 - August 20, 2024

Rincon — Our beloved Rose Elaine Leonard passed away peacefully on August 20th, 2024 at the age of 77.

Elaine was born on May 21, 1947, the eldest child of John and Lorraine Moore. The family moved to Springfield, Georgia while Elaine was a young girl. She is preceded in death by her parents and one grandson, Samuel Leonard.

She is survived by her only son, Keegan Leonard, his wife, Kelly, and two grandsons, Hobie and Reef, as well as her six siblings: Brenda (Glenn) Parrish, Steve Moore, Kevin (Sandy) Moore, Kenny (Paula) Moore, Stan (Amy) Moore, and brother Derwin Moore, in addition to many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

Elaine served proudly as a military wife and mother for over 49 years, enjoying a full life of travel and adventure in many states and overseas. Always a history buff, Elaine took advantage of living abroad to explore and study exotic places such as Greece, Turkey, Crete, the Vatican, and many other European and Asian countries. Never one to sit still for too long, Elaine also owned her own antique store, was a real estate agent, and in her free time, an avid boater and golf enthusiast. Though she took up golf later in life, her determination and athletic abilities while living in Maryland led to her being awarded champion of her local club during her time there.

One of Elaine's most significant contributions to her family was her pursuit of academic excellence. From rural, blue-collar beginnings, Elaine did not ever shy away from ploughing new ground. After earning her membership in the esteemed Beta Club at Effingham County High School, Elaine was the first member of her family to be accepted to college, eventually receiving a Bachelor of Science degree. Her exemplary work in higher education allowed her to obtain membership in the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. Although Elaine's pursuit of a college education was a first, she was soon followed by her sister, and together they paved the way for academic excellence in the family by inspiring many of their relatives to follow in their footsteps. Above Elaine's other lifetime achievements, she is best remembered for her endearing empathy and compassion towards others. Whether it was a friend, a sibling, or a distant relative, Elaine was known to drop everything and rush to the aid of anyone in need to provide comfort, physical or financial assistance, or whatever else was needed. In late 2020, Elaine returned to

Effingham County to reunite with her family after being away from the area for many years. Elaine will always be loved and missed by her family, friends, and all of those who were lucky enough to know her. May God open His arms and grant Rose Elaine Leonard Heavenly peace.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel (912) 754-6421.