Leonard D. Medley

Leonard D. Medley, 87, went home to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born January 14, 1938, in Wakenda, MO, to James Leonard and Dora Mae (Martin) Medley, who proceeded him in death. Leonard was one of their 11 beloved children.

He is survived by 3 of his dear sisters, Virginia Pearl (93), Freda Mae (83) and Marilyn Jane (81).

Leonard was a loving son, and brother, and family meant the world to him.

After graduating High School, Leonard enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served from 1956 to 1962. During that time, he was stationed at Camp Pendleton in California, and in Okinawa, Japan. He served with distinction attaining the rank of Corporal and specializing as a Mortar Man. He was awarded the Medal of Good Conduct for his service.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Marines in 1962, he went to work for the Kansas City Fire Department for a time, as a Tiller Driver.

He married Brenda H. Davis, the love of his life, in 1963. A short time later he began his career as a bus driver for the KCATA, where he worked for over 45 years, retiring in 2011.

Leonard and Brenda had one beloved son, Carl Dean Medley, born May 7, 1967, by whom they had 5 grandchildren, Connor, Ryan, Braden, Emily and Lauryn Medley.

Carl later met and married Chana, and they gained a loving daughter-in-law and two more grandchildren, Ceci and Nate Dresser. Leonard was also blessed to live to see two great-grandchildren, Brendan and Lincoln Medley, through his grandson Connor. “Dad” and “Papa” were his two most cherished titles.

He is also survived by his cherished Brother-in-law Terry Short and his family, which include Leonard’s beautiful nieces April, Lacey and Tabatha. He leaves behind many other nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members and friends who all meant the world to him.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife Brenda (2016), his parents, his 3 brothers (Lewis, James Earl, and Roy), 4 of his sisters (Eva, Ruth, Rosie and Carolyn) and many other beloved family members and friends.

Leonard and his wife Brenda spent their lives loving on everyone around them. Showing others the love of Jesus was the legacy they lived by and exemplified to their children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege to know them. Family was important and to be treasured. And family was not only dictated by blood, but also by the people God placed in their lives to love.

Leonard’s faith in Jesus Christ and his family were what he lived for until the end.

Leonard’s last day was spent reminiscing about those he loved, recounting fond memories, singing “Jesus Loves Me” and conveying how thankful he was for His Savior.

In the end he looked forward to his “date with Brenda and Jesus”, as he went peacefully home.

Services will be held on June 2, 2025. Visitation is from 1:00-2:00pm at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, with a Graveside Service to follow at 2:30 pm at Glenridge Cemetery, both of which are in Liberty, MO. All are welcome to attend as we celebrate Leonard’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to assist with burial expenses would be very much appreciated and may be left at the funeral home.