David Earl Leakey, 87, of Richmond, passed away peacefully at his home on March 12, 2024.

David was born to John Irl and Clara Mae (Edgar) Leakey on August 18, 1936, in Kansas City. He was the last of nine children.

David spent most of his childhood and adult years in and around Carroll and Ray County. He graduated from Norborne High School in 1956. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted and served proudly in the United States Army, and then in the National Guard. David received medals for Rifle and Carbine Sharpshooter and Good Conduct while honorably serving his country.

David was united in marriage to Jacqueline R. Smith in Carrollton, Missouri, on March 2, 1963. Of this union, David and Jackie were blessed with two sons, David E. Leakey, and J. Todd Leakey.

David was a member of the Hardin American Legion Post #487. He retired from Ford Motor Company in April 1991, following a 30-year career as a member of United Auto Workers Local #249. David's greatest enjoyment was spent on his farm raising livestock including cattle, swine, and chickens, and tending his garden. He loved to prepare a meal grown fully on the farm. He looked forward to hunting and fishing. He was an avid football and Kansas City Chiefs fan, and loved western movies, and country music. David was an extremely devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather having made many memories while involved in their activities and accomplishments. His pets, including Pippi and Smiley, were his constant companions. He never hesitated to lend a hand to his family, friends, neighbors, or fellow farmers.

Survivors include: wife, Jackie, of the home; son and daughter-in-law, David (Kim) Leakey of Richmond, and son and daughter-in-law, J. Todd (Kathy) of Hardin; grandsons, Cole (Abby) Leakey and Shane Leakey; granddaughters, Stephanie (Jesse) Hughes and Nakisha Leakey; great-grandchildren: Kobe, Kora, and Kashlyn Hughes, and Ryland Smith; brother-in-law, Robert "Bob" Ritzinger; and beloved dog, Pippi. David is survived by numerous other nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Everett and Adaline (Allmon)Smith; his siblings, and their spouses: Stella Mae/(Lon) Garoutte, Ruth Leakey, Frances (Floyd) Bugg, Earline (Earl) Hawkins, Naomi (Floyd) Weisz, Mildred (Gilbert) Buhrmeister, William "Bill" (Erlene) Leakey, Bonnie (Clarence "Punk") Heil; and sister-in-law, Janet Ritzinger.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Ray County.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Monday, March 18, 2024, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  A private family memorial graveside service will be held at a later date in Wakenda Cemetery, north of Hardin, where David will be laid to rest by his grandsons, Cole Leakey and Shane Leakey.  A celebration of David's life will be announced in the near future.  Please remember to share your memories of David with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.