Jean Leonard

Florence Jean Leonard was born on January 11, 1937, in Indianapolis, Indiana, and passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 89. Jean departed this earth after a life that was well-lived and loved.

From her earliest days, Jean was a devoted family girl, especially close to her brother, Bill, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. She graduated from Arsenal Technical High School, earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Butler University, and later completed another master’s degree at Indiana University. Jean dedicated more than 40 years to teaching with Indianapolis Public Schools, where her natural gift for helping others shone brightly.

In her twenties, Jean married Bill Hesselgrave and moved to Speedway. It was there that she discovered her love of gardening, taking great pride in her flower beds and developing a well-known green thumb. It was also in Speedway that Jean met missionaries and joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From that time forward, she was steadfast in her testimony of Jesus Christ and lived as a faithful example of devotion and obedience. She also became an avid genealogist, spending summers in Tennessee uncovering stories from family, friends and even strangers.

Jean was later blessed with children during her marriage to Bob Leonard. Together, they shared a deep love of music and were actively involved in both their church and the Indianapolis community, generously using their talents to serve others. Jean gave tirelessly of herself, finding her greatest joy in service. If you were ever within earshot of her, her laughter and happiness were unmistakable and contagious.

No matter how you knew Jean—Mom, Grandma, Aunt Susie, Ms. Leonard, or friend—she made everyone feel comfortable and welcome. Her positivity could turn any half-empty glass completely full. Her radiant spirit and warm smile will always be remembered.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Geneva and Ray Kemp; her brother, Bill Kemp; and her son, Robin Leonard.

She is survived by her children, Crystal Ka’aha’aina, Scott Leonard, Dean Leonard and Carla Cranfill; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at Noon on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brownsburg Chapel, 9710 W. 56th Street, Clermont, IN 46112.Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time. Jean will be laid to rest at Washington Park East Cemetery following the service.