Esteemed Chief Floyd Leonard of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma passed away at 7:20 a.m., Saturday, March 8th, 2008 at St. John's Hospital in Joplin, Missouri at age 82. The family gathered at his home in Miami. The Chief laid in state for three days, according to our customs, at our Nation's longhouse located west of Commerce, Oklahoma.
Chief Leonard spent 27 years as the Miami Nation's chief, my chief.
He was born in Picher, Oklahoma in 1925 and served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas. In 2005, he received an honorary doctorate in humane letters from Miami University. Chief Leonard began his teaching career in 1950 and served as an elementary school principal in Joplin, Missouri from 1952 to 1966. He then served as an assistant superintendent at Webb City and Joplin before retiring after 36 years in Missouri public schools. In 1953, he began his commitment to Miami tribal affairs, serving on the tribe's business committee for nine years. He was elected second chief in 1963 and became principal chief in 1974, serving eight years. Due to health concerns, he resigned his position as chief, but returned to lead our tribe in 1989 and served until his death.
Leonard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia, his son Joseph and two grandchildren. Funeral services were set for Tuesday at the Miami Nation cemetery. Dignitaries from numerous surrounding tribes, Miami University, and of Oklahoma attended, as well as tribal leaders and elders. He was given a traditional Miami burial.
On a personal note, Chief Leonard was my chief for the majority of my life. He was the last to name me, the first with a kind word, and was a man of integrity and humility. His passing is the end of an era for the Miami people. His wise counsel and generous spirit will be greatly missed.
Kikweesitoole, Akima. Aho.
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