Kent Leasure

Kent Leasure,91, of Portland, Oregon, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, with his daughter by his side. Born on January 11, 1934, in Danville, Illinois, Kent was a dedicated member of his community and a cherished figure in the funeral service industry for over seven decades.

A graduate of Sidell High School in 1952, Kent pursued further education at Worsham College of Mortuary Science, graduating in 1953. He began his career as a Funeral Director Embalmer at Houghton Funeral Home in Georgetown, Illinois, where he not only provided compassionate service but also ran the ambulance for the funeral home. His dedication to serving the community led him to purchase the funeral home, subsequently renaming it Houghton-Leasure Funeral Home.

Kent's commitment to his profession was matched only by his commitment to his community. He was an active member of the First Church of Christ in Georgetown and held membership in several professional organizations, including the Illinois Funeral Directors Association and the National Funeral Directors Association. As a proud member of Masonic Russell Lodge 32-degree, he contributed to the lodge's many philanthropic endeavors. In addition, he was a Shriner and took great pride in transporting families to the Chicago and St. Louis Shriners Hospitals. He was also a member of the Lions Club and could sell a raffle ticket and make gravy for their breakfast fundraisers unlike any other. He served as past president of the Vermilion County Funeral Director Association and left a legacy of kindness and service.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Kent proudly served as a Sergeant in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958, in the Field Artillery, which reflected his commitment to duty and service at every turn in his life.

Kent was known for his kind and loving nature and possessed a great sense of humor, often captivating those around him with his storytelling. Later in life, he discovered a passion for running (completing his first marathon at age 65) and cycling (rode across the state of IL to raise money for the Georgetown Library), activities that he embraced with the same enthusiasm he brought to all aspects of his life. His artistic side shined after retirement as he became a master at stained glass, with numerous windows in churches across East Central IL that reflect his work. He was also an avid collector of history, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with the community he held dear.

Kent is survived by his beloved daughter, Julie Leasure, his son-in-law, Marty Meade, and his second daughter Dawn Richer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Onam Leasure and Dorothy (Beuel) Leasure and his beloved wife, Ella Jane (Diehl) Leasure, with whom he shared 64 wonderful years of marriage. He was also preceded by his brothers Keith and Kenny Leasure. 

Kent's memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew him, as a shining example of what it means to serve others with love, dedication, and humor. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment, compassion, and a zest for life that will not be forgotten.

A Celebration of Kent’s life will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday August 6, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Houghton-Leasure Chapel 200 E West Street Georgetown, Illinois, 61846. Officiating will be Phil Miller. Burial will follow at Georgetown Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday August 5, 2025, 4-7 pm. The Lions Club will have a rose Ceremony take place on Tuesday at 3:45, followed by Masonic rites given by the Georgetown Masonic Russell Lodge. Memorial donations may be made his honor to the FCOC Backpack Program, or give blood in Kent's name. Please join Kent’s family in sharing pictures, video, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com