Leonard Lee Westmoreland

Leonard Lee Westmoreland, 80, of Patterson, MO, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. He was born July 27, 1944, in Patterson to Harrison and Carrie Ann (Crowley) Westmoreland.

Leonard was united in marriage to Patricia Hunt on December 15, 1963, and together they raised two daughters. Their love for each other and the life they built together was evident to all who knew them. Leonard and Patsy enjoyed many years of travel, especially exploring the country in their motorhome and wintering in the warm sun of Okeechobee, Florida.

Leonard was to say he attended Patterson High School, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Southeast Missouri State University. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served as a Military Policeman. After his military service, Leonard returned to civilian life, where he worked as a police officer for both the City of St. Louis and the City of Manchester, MO. He also served as a park ranger for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, patrolling the Trail of Tears Park and Sam A. Baker State Park, from here he found his love for the water where he and a few friends would float for days at a time. Later in life, Leonard worked for the U.S. Postal Service before retiring.

In addition to his public service career, Leonard and Patsy owned and operated Park Road Lounge and Pat's One Stop for thirty-six years, serving their community with dedication and care.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife of fifty-five years; brothers: Noah and Sherman Westmoreland; sister: Jeanette Hunter.

Leonard is survived by his daughters: Carey Handy and husband Jeff, Toni Metcalf and husband Malcolm; four grandsons: Kohl Smith-Westmoreland, Kash Metcalf, Kase Metcalf, and Zach Handy; two granddaughters: Kaidynce Tunstall and husband Dawson, Logan Johnson and husband Aaron; one great-granddaughter: Brynnin Pratt; brother: McArthur “Corkey” Westmoreland wife Patty; several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

Leonard was known for his quick wit and love of storytelling. Whether recounting his travels with Patsy, his days in law enforcement, or growing up with his brothers on Hog Eye Road, his stories always brought laughter and warmth to those around him. Leonard cherished his family and friends, and Sunday dinners at his house were a beloved tradition.

He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Visitation was held at 11:00 am, Friday, January 3, 2025, at Ruegg Funeral Home, Piedmont Chapel. Funeral service followed at 1:00 pm, also in the Piedmont Chapel. Bro Glen Hunter ministered to the family. Special music was provided by Randy Brunk. Kohlton Westmoreland gave a heartfelt eulogy. Kohlton Westmoreland, Michael Westmoreland, Todd Westmoreland, Jeff Handy, Malcom Metcalf, and Caleb Westmoreland served as pallbearers. Kevin Shatley and Mark Randall served as honorary pallbearers. Burial was in Patterson Cemetery with full military honors provided by the United States Army and American Legion Post 281 of Piedmont. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leonard Lee Westmoreland, please visit our floral store.