Bettie Lou Gunnell Leonard

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, a day the Lord had made, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Bettie Lou Gunnell Leonard, peacefully departed this world for her heavenly home. Bettie was born November 23, 1936, in Surry County, to the late Roosevelt and Emma McCraw Gunnell. She leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and treasured memories that will continue for generations to come. Bettie found great joy in cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought immeasurable happiness to her life. Every grandchild wore a homemade Halloween costume lovingly made by Mimi, ran through her backyard playing croquet, and spent time swinging beneath the giant oak tree she had planted from an acorn. She lovingly grew flowers for each grandchild’s special occasions, whether for prom, graduation, or a summer wedding. Her grandchildren learned to love reading through the books she carefully chose for them and through the stories she shared. As her family continued to grow, her seven grandchildren blessed her with the added joy of great-grandchildren. She is survived by her four daughters, Kathy Leonard Jones (Troy), Alice Leonard Isom (Jerry), Ann Leonard, and Amy Leonard Deaton (Mike); six grandchildren, Thomas, James, Charlotte, Matthew, Jimmy, and Amanda; and several great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Bettie was preceded in death by her beloved son, Walter Dalton Leonard, III; a grandson, Paul Freer, III; and her siblings, Raymond Gunnell, Gary Gunnell, Clem Lawrence, Fannie Weddle, Annice Graham, and Lillian Gunnell. In her later years, Bettie found peace and fulfillment tending her beloved foxgloves, flowers she dearly loved, and her final resting place will be near them. In keeping with Bettie’s wishes, there will be no visitation or memorial service. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love, care, and compassion shown by the staff of Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, P.O. Box 325, Dobson, NC 27017. Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.