Leon Sterling South

Leon Sterling South of Independence, Missouri passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 11, 2023. Leon
was born to Leon and Hazel South in Falls City, Nebraska on January 8, 1930.

After graduating from Salem High School Leon enlisted into the United States Navy and proudly served
his country for 4 years. He spent 17 years working as a machinist for the Missouri
Pacific Railroad before landing his career as a mechanic for Kansas City Power and Light. He was
employed with them for over 30 years until retirement. Leon was an athlete in his younger years and
enjoyed sports such at football, baseball and wrestling. He was able to share his love for the game by
coaching his son through baseball most of his life as well. Leon had a heart of gold and enjoyed serving
others. He volunteered his time to the food pantry for over 10 years, scouts, the masonic lodge and was
a member of the Ararat Shriners as well. He was an outdoorsman, took pride in his garden, enjoyed
hunting and farming. Leon was a talented woodworker/carpenter and was know as being the jack of all
trades. There wasn’t anything Leon couldn’t do if he put his mind to it. He will be greatly missed.
Leon is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 38 years, Sue South and parents.

He is survived by his son, Michael South (Terri); daughter, Sandra South; step-sons, Brad Waterworth
(Vicki) and Kevin Waterworth; step-daughter, Brenda Palma (Noe); grandchildren, Kayleen South, Jake
Finn, Danielle Isaacs (Jeremi), Emili O’Brien (Tyler), Amanda McKie (Aaron), Meridith Fitch (Eric), Bobby
Waterworth, Kaelin Blackwell, Kylie Waterworth, Kelsey Waterworth, Ryan Palma (Tara), Noe Palma and
17 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 6-8pm on Thursday, May 18th at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence,
Mo. Funeral service will be at 10am on Friday, May 19th at Fairmount Christian Church in Independence,
Mo. With burial to follow at Floral Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donation can be made to the
Fairmount Christian Church, 641 S. Ash Ave, Independence, Mo. 64053 in memory of Leon.