Leonard Jelks Jr., 75, of Lutz, Florida, passed away on October 4, 2026. Born on February 20, 1951, in Tampa, Florida, he was the beloved son of Leonard Jelks Sr. and Annie Pugh Jelks.

Leonard was a man of dedication, skill, and passion. He earned his bachelor’s degree and he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He later devoted his professional life to his love of mechanics, building a career as a talented and hardworking automotive mechanic. His abilities extended far beyond cars, as he could skillfully work on just about anything with an engine, including lawn mowers, trucks, and motorcycles. His love for automobiles was more than a profession; it was a true passion. An avid racing enthusiast, Leonard even owned his own race car.

Above all, Leonard cherished his family. He married the love of his life, Dawnese Alayne Jelks, and together they built a family blessed with seven children. Though Leonard has now been reunited in eternal rest with his beloved wife, Dawnese, and his sons, Nathan Joel Jelks and Leonard Jelks III, the love they shared and the memories they created will forever remain in the hearts of those who survive him.

Leonard leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor his memory, including his children, Tawnya Jelks, Dedric Comer, Teresa Jelks, David Jelks, and Aaron Jelks; his grandchildren, Isaiah Tolstrup, Darren Comer, Lateesha Hines, Jazmin Tolstrup, Vesta Johnson, Essence Faizon, and Empress Faizon; and his great-grandchildren, Jazlyn Johnson, Javeah Johnson, and Avi Grounder.

Though his earthly journey has come to an end, Leonard’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the skills he mastered, and the memories he leaves behind. He will be remembered for his dedication, his love of all things mechanical, and the lasting mark he made on the lives of those who knew and loved him. 

A visitation in honor of Leonard will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, where family and friends may gather to pay their respects and celebrate his life.