March 29, 1919 - Jan. 8, 2013

ELKHART - Elizabeth "Betty" Leonard, 93, of Elkhart passed away Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013, at Eastlake Terrace.

She was born March 29, 1919, in Elkhart to Perry and Blanche (Neville) Eash Sr.

She married Howard A. Hammon, who preceded her in death. She married James Keelin Leonard in 1969. He preceded her in death in 1986.

Surviving are three daughters, Joan (Bob) Anderson of Elkhart, Shirley (William) Prough of Surprise, Ariz., and Jan (Larry) Leininger of Elkhart; one son, Ronald (Gloria) Hammon of Alamo, Texas; 11 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; a stepson, Quinton "Buzz" (Joan) Leonard of Elkhart; and a stepdaughter, Shirley (Charles) French of Tucson, Ariz.

She was preceded in death by one brother and three sisters.

Betty retired from C.T.S. Corporation in production. She was a member of Faith United Methodist Church and was involved with many activities in the church. She enjoyed playing pinochle with friends and traveling. She loved being around family and helping others.

Visitation for Betty will be one hour prior to the 2 p.m. service on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, Elkhart. The Rev. John Hogsett will officiate.

Burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Harbor Light Hospice. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com.

Pam Stephenson, Elkhart, IN Jan and families: I just heard that your mom had passed on. My sympathies to you all. This is a hard time for you.

Jan Walters, Elkhart, IN Dear Joan,Jan and Ron and families, So sorry to learn of the passing of your Mother, know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Jan and Buzz

Chad Miller, Elkhart, IN Grandma,..I do not know where to begin or to end.You've taught me so much over the years.We've laughed together and cried together.I take comfort in knowing that you've gone home now even though the world was a better place with you in it,heaven is now that much better.I look forward to seeing you again one day.Until then I promise to pass on what Ive been so fortunate to learn from you and mom,to my family.I miss you and I love you.And please tell Keelin that Sport and Shotgun say hi.Your grateful and loving grandson-Chad.

Nyla & Richard Moore, Elkhart, IN Joan, we are so very sorry for the loss of your Mother. Our prayer is for comfort and peace during this time. Nyla & Richard Moore

Jan Leininger, Elkhart, IN The angels were rejoicing as Jesus said it was time to take you to Heaven to be with Him. I miss you so much, but despite the tears I take great peace and comfort knowing you are finally able to walk and dance on the streets of Gold. Until we are together once again, I will treasure the things you have taught me and try to emmulate your kind, caring and generous ways while still on earth for you will always be with me. Your loving daughter - Jan.