Leander Felix Smith

Leander Felix Smith was born on March 10, 1934, in Davenport, Iowa, to Opal and Felix Smith. He was preceded in death by his three siblings: Catherine Buchanan, Betty Thornton, and Frank Smith. As a young man, Leander professed Christ as his Lord and Savior, a commitment that shaped his life and legacy.

In 1959, Leander married the love of his life, Cecelia, in Waterloo, Iowa. Together, they shared 65 years of devoted marriage. After their wedding, they moved to Louisville, Kentucky, where they welcomed four children: Sandie, Raymond, Roland, and Valencia, who preceded him in death. The family later settled in Garfield Heights and Cleveland Heights, Ohio, eventually spending their retirement years in Lewis Center, Ohio.

Leander was a loving husband and father who provided spiritual covering for his family as a man of God. He served faithfully in ministry as a deacon, AWANA instructor, and in building maintenance for the church. One of the highlights of his ministry was co-leading a “50+” small group Bible study for seniors alongside his wife, Cecelia—a role he cherished deeply. He took great pride in leading his family on month-long summer camping trips, exploring the beauty of the United States. Known for his generosity, Leander possessed the gift of giving and blessed many through his kindness. He was the embodiment of 1 Timothy 3:8–13, living out its principles with humility and grace.

A proud veteran, Leander served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War and was honored with the United Nations Medal, Korean Medal, and National Defense Medal in recognition of his service. Prior to his military service, he attended Iowa State Teachers College for two years.

Leander’s professional career spanned over 30 years with the United States Postal Service, where he retired at age 55 as the Regional Superintendent for Building Services.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Cecelia; his children Sandie (Alfred) Crawford, Raymond Finley Smith, and Roland McKinley Smith; his grandchildren Lauren (Laran) Eley, Alfred Earl Crawford II, Meghan (Ben) Hartwig, Moriah (Austin) Steele, and Marissa Davis; and his great-grandchildren Kayleigh Renee, Elijah Cade, Ryleigh Lyric, Glynn Gracen, August James, and Clark Shepherd.

Leander’s life was a testament of faith, service, and love. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.