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Submitted: 8/7/21 • Approved: 8/8/21 • Last Updated: 8/11/21 • R1385433-G0-S3
November 5, 1923 - October 14, 2016
The Legacy of Deacon Leonard Wakefield, Jr.
The man, the legend, known as daddy, granddaddy, big daddy, puck, Wakefield, Deacon and most of all servant.
When you plant seeds in the lives of others and water them with love and care you will reap a harvest of sweet memories that will follow you everywhere.
On November 5, 1923 in the small town of Ogden, AR the union of Leonard and Charlene Washington Wakefied, Sr. was blessed with a son, Leonard Wakefield, Jr. On Friday, October 14, 2016 the legacy of Leonard came to an end after being blessed with ninety-two years. He accepted Christ at the age of 16 in the Union Missionary Baptist Church Family. He was a graduate of the Historic Langston High School. He served in the United States Army/Air Force from April 1943 – March 1946 touring overseas. He fought in World War II. Upon his discharge, he obtained employment with the General Motors Corporation in Flint, MI. His time with General Motors was a span of thirty years. He retired December 12, 1980 and relocated back to Hot Springs December 14, 1980 with his family. Leonard was also the manager of the Baxter Hotel for many years offering service to the downtrodden and those who were down on their luck.
While in Flint, MI he was a faithful member of Heavenly Host Baptist Church serving as a Deacon and Trustee. Upon his relocation to Hot Springs he became a member of Union Missionary Baptist Church. Deacon Wakefield had a great love for the Church and its people. He served as Chairman of the Trustee Ministry, Chairman of the Finance Committee, Assistant Chairman of the Deacon Ministry. Although he never planted a flower or made a bow his was a member of the Beautification Committee. He would serve as the late-night security guard for those who were working. He also served on the Sick Committee which he referred to as “The Sick Wagon.” He would often drive and always stop to buy chicken. He was an ongoing supporter of the Vision/Building Fund even after moving to Little Rock, AR in 2010 to live with his granddaughter and her family he (she) would still send money on special days. He loved and respected Pastor and Sister Jones often padding the anniversary offering out of his pocket if he thought it wasn’t enough. He was one of the first members of the Pastor’s care team. He would give the Pastor $100.00 for Sister Jones birthday and would give her a $100.00 for Pastor’s birthday. He made sure that they had Peppered Ham for the holiday's and give them money for each holiday. He had a love for the children of the church and would always have treats for them and take them to King Kone after Tuesday night rehearsal-- “all of them.” Deacon Wakefield would bring the men from his building to do handy work at the church and would pay them out of his pocket. Deacon Wakefield is known for his liberality and love of staying abreast of “current events.” He is most known for his expression, “Thank Jesus and General Motors (not necessary always in that order). And God, remember the street people for they’re your people too.” The Leonard Wakefied Ministry of Compassion was birthed out of the efforts of Bridget Minor—who seeks resources to support UMBC’S church ministries and outreach efforts to the homeless. It was officially named to recognize and honor Deacon Wakefield for his many years of service to UMBC doing the same thing. It was made official in July 2016. “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” I John 3:17 NIV. Deacon Wakefied was a man of action not just words. He loved Gospel Music, especially the Williams Brothers and Lee Williams.
Those completing the journey before him include his parents, Leonard Wakefield, Sr. and Charlene Taylor and his stepfather, Alvin Taylor; his wife, Mary Patricia “Patsy” Wakefield; sister, Lillye (James) Kirby; two daughters, Marsha Wakefield and Deborah Johnson; grandson, Antonio Montwon “Lil Wake” Marshall and extended family.
Those left to continue his legacy and cherish his memories is his son, Ronald Wakefield, Sr. of Flint, MI; his daughter, Addie Wilma Wakefield of Hot Springs; his granddaughter and her husband who served as his caregiver's, Timikia and Kevin Jackson, of North Little Rock; grandchildren, Monique Cherese Wakefield and Brandi Wakefield of Hot Springs, Ronald Wakefield, Jr. and LaRhonda Wakefield of Flint, MI.; great grandchildren, James Anthony Barron, Kivan Barker, Cameron Jackson, Deron Leonard and Aniyah Wakefield; one great-great grandchild, Anthony Montwon Barron, II, a special and devoted friend and her family, Rosella Brown, his extended families, the Carrigan’s, Finney’s, King’s (descendants of Willard King) and the Union Baptist Church Family; his caregiver and friend, Betty Washington.
His legacy: “Be a strong and effective leader for the Church”
Funeral service will be 1:30 PM Saturday, October 22, 2016 at Union Baptist Church, 219 Gulpha Street with Pastor Douglas E. Jones, officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 PM Friday at the church.
Guest registry is at http://www.carriganmemorial.com’
Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.
Contributed on 8/7/21 by debbraszymanski
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Record #: 1385433