Kelly Leonard and I have known each other for over 20 years and have been the best of friends throughout the years. I first met Brandon when he was just 14 years old and a freshman at Science Hill High School. He and my brother developed a friendship quickly and our families became very close over the years. Whether we were boating on a lake or taking trips to visit each other we've always made it a priority to meet up despite us being spread out in different states.

Our hearts were all ripped out when Kelly's brother Josh was taken away from us in 2015. It was an especially difficult blow for Brandon and Chris, as they each had their own special bond with him. Just 3 short years later Chris tragically departed this Earth. An unbearable blow to a family who had not fully recovered yet from Josh's passing. Since then Kelly, Heather, Matt, Brandon and Angel have all leaned on each other for support. Their healing process has been long and often times very difficult but their shared grief and love for each other has brought them even closer together. Over the last few weeks Brandon had been home in Johnson City and was able to spend quality time with his family. Just prior to his passing he had to returned to Winston Salem, NC.

Soon after they got the call that another member of their family had been taken from them. Brandon Leonard passed away on Sunday, Feb. 12th at the young age of 36. Prior to his passing, Brandon had made his wishes known of being buried. Kelly and Angel worked diligently to honor his wishes and bring him home from North Carolina, which unfortunately was no easy task. Bringing a loved one home comes at a great expense which is why we have created this GoFund Me. Whether you are able to gift $5 or $50, we know every bit will help.

To Brandon- you are loved by so many and will be missed so dearly. We hope that your homecoming with your brothers and dad was a joyous one. Please watch over your family as your brothers have done and pray for the strength they will need in the weeks and years to come.