Leonard West Thweatt, age 72 of Morrison, IL, departed this life Thursday, December 18, 2014.
Leonard was born August 19, 1942, to Jesse Hobart and Jimmie (West) Thweatt, who were tobacco farmers in the mountains of beautiful Smithville, TN. The third of seven children, he attended a one-room school house as a boy, before moving to Memphis, TN. Enlisting in the U. S. Army in 1961, he enjoyed being stationed in Augsburg, Germany, where he drove tanks and trained as a sharpshooter.
At 23, he married the love of his life, Norma Sue Loyd. They shared 50 wonderful years together and three children: Mark Phillips (51) of Oregon, IL, Jessie (Anthony) Harvey (47) of Rockford, IL, and Kellie (Brandon) Pudlas (44) of Mt. Morris, IL.
Leonard worked for 33 years in the printing trade and was well liked by all. He was a great provider and always willing to help a friend in need, or even a stranger. He was fair and honest, with a great sense of humor.
He loved spending time with his grandkids, Troy Pudlas (19), Kelsey Pudlas (17), Katelin Pudlas (13), and Preston Harvey (7).
Leonard was a great artist; he loved music, British motorcycles, history, and nature. His beloved dog Ruby brought him much joy. He will be forever remembered and treasured.
Heartfelt thanks to Stacey and all the staff at Hospice of the Rock River Valley for their loving care. To honor Leonard just play a Willie Nelson song, have a cold beer, and smile.
A memorial service will be held at Morrison United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 10, 2015, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to Hospice of the Rock River Valley.