Joe Andrew Leech Sr.

Joe A. Leech, Sr., 91, of Muscle Shoals, AL, formerly of Winthrop Harbor, IL, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on August 18, 2025.

Graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 21, at 2:00 pm at Greenbrier Cemetery, Greenbrier Cemetery Road, Becker, MS. Williams Funeral Home-Florence, AL is assisting the family.

Joe was born April 6, 1934, in Becker, MS, to Dee and Vera Leech. He attended Becker Schools, graduating in 1952. After high school, Joe moved to Zion, IL, where he met the love of his life, Joyce Holley. They were married on September 4, 1954, and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

Joe worked at John’s Manville before becoming a barber. He owned and operated Leech’s Barber Shop in Zion, IL, for more than 40 years, where he became a familiar face and friend to many in the community. Joe also dedicated himself to public service, serving for many years on the Winthrop Harbor School Board—where he held the role of president—as well as the Zion Benton High School Board. In addition, he contributed his time and leadership to the Planning and Zoning Board for the Village of Winthrop Harbor for many years.

Outside of work, Joe loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and cherished his annual trips to Canada with family and friends. His greatest joy, however, was time spent with his children and grandchildren, who will remember him for his unwavering love.

He attended Faith Church in Florence, AL where he was active in the Classics.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Holley Leech; his children, Joe Leech Jr. (Julie), Jeff Leech (Suzanne), Jill Leech, and Jennifer Riley (Scott); grandchildren, Jessica DiNicola (Patrick), Jared Leech, Ethan Riley (Kidron), Jenna Leech, Holley Ikard (Matthew), Justin Alotti, and Taylor Ard; and great-grandchildren, Carson, Henry, and Parker. And many nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, brother Don, and sister Faye.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.