Timothy Patrick Leach

Timothy Patrick Leach, 57, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on May 8, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Friedreich’s ataxia. Though the disease challenged him for many years, Tim met every day with remarkable determination, grit, and an unwavering spirit that inspired everyone who loved him. He refused to let his illness define him, choosing instead to live fully, love deeply, and fight with quiet strength up until the very end.

Born on March 6, 1969, in Canton, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents Timothy John Leach and Cheri Sue (Yoerns) Leach. His grandparents, Robert A. and Elaine D. (Paul) Leach and William and Beverly (Phillips) Yoerns.

Tim’s life was shaped by the thing he loved most: his family, his music, and the traditions that brought him joy. He treasured time with those closest to him; whether gathered around the table, out on the water, or simply sharing stories and laughter sitting on the patio. His devotion to his family was constant and fierce; they were his purpose, his pride, and the center of every decision he made.

Tim cheered for the Cleveland Browns and Ohio State Buckeyes with passion and loyalty, celebrating every victory and riding out every heartbreak, including the 2007 BCS National Championship Bowl game when he traveled to AZ to root on the Buckeyes. NASCAR Sundays were the best, a time to settle in, root for his favorites; Dale Jr., Dave Blaney and most recently Ryan Blaney. He enjoyed the thrill of the race and the anticipation of the big crash. And then there was the soundtrack of his life “Tim’s tunes” , a collection of songs that reflected his personality, his memories, and his love of sharing music with others. Music was one of the ways he connected, comforted, and celebrated, and those who knew him will forever hear him in the songs he loved.

Tim graduated from Canton Central Catholic in 1987 and went on to study dental technology and entrepreneurship at Columbus State. He built a long and dedicated career in HVAC, spending his final ten years with Speer Mechanical, where he was respected for his work ethic, reliability, and good humor.

Above all, Tim was a family man. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 30 years, Tammy Byas Leach; his children, Megan (Jared) Leach‑Rohrs, of Delaware, OH and Timothy D. (Holland) Leach, of Plainfield, IL; his beloved dog, Lizzie; his brother, Todd (Melissa) Leach, of Creston,OH ; his sister, Tara Leach Cline, of Hilliard, OH; and countless cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends. His love for them was steady and unconditional, and his presence will be felt in every memory, every tradition, and every song that reminds them of him.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 5–7 p.m. at Newcomer NE Chapel, 3047 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus.A Memorial Service will take place Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.Family and friends are welcome to gather afterward at the family home to continue sharing stories, music, and the love Tim leaves behind.