Paulette V. Leonard

Paulette Virginia (Riddle) Leonard, 80, of Glendale, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, at Thunderbird Hospital.

Born on April 10, 1945, in Ardmore, Oklahoma, Paulette was the beloved daughter of John Alvin Riddle Sr. and Pauline Virginia Mark. She was raised in Council Bluffs, Iowa, alongside her brother and sister, where she embraced her spirited nature as a self-described tomboy—often found playing sports with the neighborhood boys. Her athleticism blossomed into a passion for baton twirling, earning her national recognition and later inspiring her to teach and mentor other accomplished twirlers.

A proud graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, Class of 1963, Paulette married the love of her life, Mike Leonard, on November 16 of that same year. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three sons—Mark Leonard (Jodi), Mathew Leonard (Ann), and Bill Leonard, who were the center of her world.

Paulette began her professional journey at Republic Claims Service in Iowa and continued her career in Arizona with American Family Insurance. Beyond her work, she found joy in family gatherings, summer pool games, cooking hearty meals, and baking sweet treats for her grandchildren. She cherished holidays and traditions, decorating with enthusiasm and love. Known for her candid spirit, she proudly wore a shirt that read, “Everyone is entitled to my opinion,” a phrase that captured her wit and wisdom.

She was a devoted fan at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and could often be found walking the casino floors in search of her lucky Red Rooster slot machine. Her zest for life and unwavering love for her family were constants throughout her years.

Paulette was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Mike Leonard, her infant daughter Lisa, and her sister Kathy Smith.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter through her three sons and their wives, eight grandchildren—Pete Leonard (Hasin), Brody Leonard, Zach Leonard, Morgan Allen (Jake), Jacob Leonard, Elena Leonard, Ana Leonard, and Emma Leonard—and six great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. She is also survived by her brother John Riddle, brother-in-law Charles Smith, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Paulette was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at Wednesday, November 12th at 1:00 PM at Menke Funeral Home in Sun City, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Ronald McDonald House in memory of Paulette Leonard.