Leach, John William (Cleveland)

  • Wednesday, March 21, 2018
John William Leach
John William Leach

John William Leach, 90, a resident of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away on Monday morning, March 19, 2018.

John was born in Whitley County, Ky. on September 1, 1927 to the late Millard and Amanda Rose Leach. He served in the United States Air Force during WWII. He was of the Baptist faith. John worked as an electrical lineman for many years, 20 of those years with Cleveland Utilities. He was promoted as superintendent of the overhead lineman during his time with Cleveland Utilities, before returning to Jellico, Tn. in 1979 where he became the general manager for Jellico Electric and Water System. John retired there in 2008 when he was 80 years old, having helped many individuals and influencing many lives through his wisdom and vigorous work ethic. He was also a member of the Masons.

Mr. Leach loved farming, raising horses, refinishing furniture, and gardening. He was best known for his “Horse-Trading”. He loved bargaining and making a sell or trade, always making him proud when he came out for the best. John loved his family, and although he had a tough exterior, his heart of gold always shined through. He gave to so many, especially within his family. This kindness made a difference in many people’s lives.  

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Lola Dotson; and brother, Eugene Leach. 

John leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving children, Glen Leach (Karen) and Kathy Leach Meadows (David); mother of his children, Mary Roberts; grandchildren, Coby Leach, Leslie Davis (Joe), Cameron Meadows (Trisha), and Andy Meadows (Haley); great-grandchildren, Cameron Davis, Aubrey and Brenna Meadows, and Owen and Jacob Meadows; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. 

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 22, from 5-7 p.m. at Companion Funeral Home, located at 2419 Georgetown Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37311. 

A celebration of life funeral service will begin at 7 p.m. at the funeral home. 

Mr. Leach will be laid to rest in the Clearfork Cemetery in Whitley County, KY, at 1 p.m. on Friday March 23. 

You are invited to share a personal memory of John or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com.

Companion Funeral and Cremation Service and the Cody family are honored to assist the Leach family with these arrangements.

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