James Leech

Our brother, James D. 'Jim' Leech, a kind and loving soul, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, after a hard-fought battle with multiple myeloma. A celebration of Jim's life will be held at Jim Ned Valley Church of Christ, 509 Railroad Ave., Tuscola, on Friday, May 9, at 3 PM with visitation there at 1:30 PM.

Born in Abilene on May 24, 1956, he touched countless lives with his positive attitude, kind words for any stranger, and a true gift of brightening others' days. A devoted brother, friend, uncle, and golfing buddy, Jim will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Jim was a career truck driver who took pride in starting his own successful trucking company that provided a good living for himself and his business partners. As a young man, Jim adored horses, but they were given up in later years for golf. His real love in life, though, was people - no one he met remained a stranger for long. Though he never married or had children, he loved his extended family and loved being a "great" uncle!

Jim loved the Lord and talked to Him all the time...about everything. He took great comfort in the promise of Heaven and didn't waste any time after his cancer returned recently. The year plus of bonus time after the first diagnosis and treatment is filled with treasured memories. Jim was blessed by the care of so many medical caregivers, and he came to regard them all as family. We express our sincere gratitude to all who helped in his fight for a longer life.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, mischief, and avid conversation! Surviving family members include his brother Robert 'BJ' Leech, Jr., sister and brother-in-law Kay and Mark Whitton, close cousin Rod (Judy) Leech, step-sister Dianne (Larry) Pack, nephew Patrick (Amber) Leech, niece Kayla (Luke) Hisey, and greats Kyla, Keenan and Killian Walker, along with numerous cousins. He was the youngest of the grandchildren on both sides and adored by both his parents and grandparents, who all predeceased him.

Jim shared with everyone how blessed he considered himself. His legacy that he'd want passed on is to "see" people, step out and brighten someone's day with a smile or a kind word.