Leon Meeks Jr.

Mr. Leon E. Meeks, Jr. age 84 a longtime resident of Gainesville passed away Thursday, September 26, 2024, at the Veterans Hospital in Gainesville. He was born July 22, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York to the late Leon E. and Ruth (Phoenix) Meeks, Sr. At the age of 17 his mother allowed him to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he began studies at Pratt Institute, Mechanics Institute, and New York University. He had been employed with Johnson Publishing Company, Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City, IBM, and New York Community Training Institute. Leon was an exceptional artist, painter, photographer, architectural designer, educator, and jeweler. During the late 1960’s and early 1970’s his artwork would be exhibited and sold throughout the United States. Mr. Meeks was a funny guy who had a great sense of humor. He loved talking to and socializing with his neighbors and friends. Interment will be at Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his parents and his brother Rodney. Time and date have not been set. Arrangements are under the care of MILAM FUNERAL HOME, INC. 311 S. Main Street, Gainesville, FL 32601. (352) 376-5361.www.milamfh.com