"JOLENE" LINDA LEACH

Linda “Jolene” Leach, 66, of Chamois, Missouri, passed away at her home on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
She was born on August 28, 1959 in Chillicothe, Missouri the daughter of John Harvey and Grace Lea (Fry) Petty. In 1976, Jolene was married to Edwin Douglas Daniels, they were blessed with two children: Philip and Whitney. Later she married John Leach in May 2001, who survives at the home.
Linda was 1978 graduate of Glasgow High School, afterwards getting a job at American Recreation, where she was a seamstress and sewed sleeping bags for over twenty years. Later working at Morrison Apparel and before her retirement at the Osage R-1 School custodian.
Linda lived a life rooted in faith, curiosity, and a love for people. A devoted Sunday School teacher, she faithfully served at First Baptist Church in Chamois and at Truth Tabernacle in Booneville, sharing wisdom, kindness, and a deep love for God with generations of students.
Linda had a lifelong love of learning and connection, which even led to an appearance on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, an experience that reflected her gentle spirit and appreciation for meaningful conversations.
In quieter moments, Linda found joy gardening, being outdoors, especially while hiking, exploring new places, and going for long walks. Antique malls were a favorite destination, where she delighted in discovering pieces of the past and the stories behind them. Linda enjoyed the time she spent traveling with John to Florida to the beach for Senior class trips and the family vacations to Colorado. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her two precious grandchildren.
Above all, Linda cherished simple pleasures, time spent walking, exploring, teaching, and nurturing faith and curiosity in others. These passions will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her loving husband; John Leach of Chamois; one son: Philip Daniels of Chamois; one daughter; Whitney Lindsey (Adam) of Gardner, Kansas, two grandchildren: Aiden Matthew Lindsey and Wrenley Grace Lindsay; her brothers and sisters: John Petty, Dale Petty (Barbara), Ricky Petty, and Carol Brown. She was preceded in death by her parents: Harvey and Grace Petty; and one sister: Lora Morrow.
Friends will be received on Friday, January 30, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 407 W 4th Street, Chamois, MO with a memorial service to be held at 6:00 p.m. with Rev. Jeremiah Abell officiating. 
An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Truth Tabernacle, 1232 Bingham Road, Boonville, MO with a memorial service to be held at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Charles Cook officiating. Inurnment will follow at the Mount Pleasant Cemetery, New Franklin, MO. Expressions of sympathy may be made to: First Baptist Church of Chamois or the Truth Tabernacle Church of Boonville.
Arrangements are under the direction of MILLARD FAMILY CHAPELS, 102 Market Street, Chamois, MO 65024. (573) 763-5658. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com