Leonard Owens McMichael, 93, of Roseland, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his home on January 5, 2025. Born on March 13, 1931, in Roseland to Phillip Spiller McMichael and Beulah McMichael, Leonard lived a life dedicated to faith, family, and service.
Leonard began preaching at the young age of 16 in 1947, answering a call to ministry that spanned over 70 years. He was a devoted pastor who never met a stranger, touching countless lives through his sermons, personal outreach, and genuine kindness. From running the church bus to bring children to services, preaching at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail, and hosting a weekly radio ministry, Leonard's passion for spreading the Gospel knew no bounds.
A proud veteran, Leonard served in the United States Army from 1953 to 1959, exemplifying the same dedication to his country as he did to his ministry.
Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip Spiller McMichael and Beulah McMichael; his brother, Sidney McMichael; an infant sister; his beloved wife, Betty McMichael; sons Kenneth McMichael and David McMichael; and grandson Steven McMichael.
He is survived by his children Rebecca Russell (Bryant), Phillip McMichael (Rhonda), Benjamin McMichael (Rachel), and Mark McMichael Sr.; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family who cherished him deeply.
A celebration of Leonard's life and ministry will be held at First Baptist Church of Roseland on January 9, 2025.
Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest at McMichael Cemetery in Roseland.
Pallbearers will be Mark McMichael Jr., Kenneth McMichael Jr., Aaron McMichael, Josh McMichael, Tyler Costanza, Dewey McMichael, Mason McMichael, and Chance McMichael, with Kevin McMichael and Kaleb Carpenter serving as honorary pallbearers.
Leonard leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith and love, a reminder to all who knew him of the power of a life lived in service to God and others.