Joseph James Leonardo

Joseph James Leonardo Sr, 85, died peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, in his home. He was the loving husband of Mary (Cramer) Leonardo, with whom he shared 37 years of marriage.

Born in Reading, he was the only son of the late Joseph Louis Leonardo and Mary Josephine Guzowski. A proud veteran, Joseph volunteered for the Marine Corps upon graduation from Central Catholic High School. After completing his enlistment, he went on to work for Grace Mines for a short time. Later, Joseph discovered his true passion as a police officer for the Reading Police Department. Throughout his career, he had advanced to become an instructor for the Police Academy, where he became known as 'Sgt Papa Joe' to many.

His hobbies included weekly card games with his uncles and his buddies, and many adventures he shared with his wife.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Mary; five children: Michael Leonardo (Beth) of Florida; William Leonardo of Reading; Ann Najarian (Steve) of Exeter; Joseph Ecenrode (Theresa) of Muhlenberg; Jennie Fisher (Richard Jr.) of Shoemakersville; 19 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Leonardo Jr.

A viewing will be held Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., 739 Penn Avenue West Reading, PA 19611. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 10:00 am in St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church, 151 N 9th St. Reading, PA 19601. Burial will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery in Laureldale.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County in honor of his beloved dog, Tiny Tots.

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc. is responsible for arrangements. Condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com