Leonard Michael Mahon

Leonard Michael Mahon, age 79, passed away on June 25, 2024, at Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Tennessee. Born in Southfield Township, Michigan, to the late Leo Lawrence Mahon and Lois Mae Sleep Mahon, Leonard led a life marked by intelligence, quiet contemplation, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Leonard proudly served in the U.S. Navy from April 6, 1962, until October 1, 1969, achieving the rank of E5 (2nd Class) Yeoman. From July 1962 to July 1966, he was attached to Fighter Squadron VF-114, the Aardvarks, aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63). During this period, he completed two Westpac deployments to Vietnam. Subsequently, Leonard received orders to the 9th Naval District Headquarters at Great Lakes, Illinois. Later, he was involved in covert operations in South Vietnam, particularly around the Mekong Delta region south of Saigon. Leonard was very secretive about his time there, having signed agreements to never divulge details of his missions.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Leonard worked for Bausch and Lomb grinding lenses until around 1973-1974. Following this, he joined his brothers in starting a machine shop, Proto Form, in Romulus, Michigan. A few years later, Leonard and his wife, Judy, relocated to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he worked for Sunbeam/Phillips as a plastic injection molder repairman. This company, a subsidiary of General Motors, later recruited Leonard for the new Saturn Plant. His expertise in carbide tools earned him a role as a buyer for Saturn, involving extensive travel to procure dies and forms for the company. Leonard eventually worked in the large die department, producing parts like door panels, hoods, and trunks, and retired from Saturn.

Leonard was an intelligent and private individual. Though he was not one to socialize often, when he did, his intellect and insightful observations captivated those around him. He had a natural talent for growing vegetation, providing vegetables for his family and maintaining a beautifully landscaped lawn. His understanding of how life thrives was evident in the flourishing gardens and meticulously cared-for plants that surrounded him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy Morgan Mahon, his daughter, Katrina Cox, and his brother, Lawrence Mahon. 

Leonard's legacy lives on through his daughter: Michelle Mahon Ryals, Dawn Roberson; son: Lonny Mahon; son-in-love Steven Cox; siblings: Mary Mahon Hatswell of Taylor, MI, Robert (Carol) Mahon of Monroe, MI, Dennis (Doris) Mahon of Taylor, MI, Sue Mahon Dennis of Baldwin, MI, James Mahon of Rockwood, MI, Sherri Mahon Hart of Gresham, OR, and numerous grandchildren, who will dearly miss his presence. His life, though quiet and private, was filled with profound moments of wisdom and care that will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

The care of Mr. Leonard Michael Mahon and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Williams Funeral Home. To share words of comfort and condolences, please visit www.williamsfh.com