On Saturday, May 27, 2023, Melanie Louise (nee-Helvey) Leonard, age 50, beloved wife and mother, passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Louis, MO, from complications associated with a short critical illness.

Melanie was born on March 19, 1973, in St. Louis, MO to Jack and Diane (nee-Basola) Helvey. Melanie grew up in north St. Louis County and Benld, IL and she recently lived in New Douglas, IL. She was employed by Lebanon Health Care Facility, Lebanon, IL as the Dietary/Housekeeping Supervisor.

Melanie was the most compassionate and kindest spirit anyone could ever meet. She never said “no” to helping anyone with anything. She was an extremely dedicated Mother to her children and grandchildren. “Mel” cared deeply for her family and neighbors. She did this not out of obligation, but because of who she was. She was always the first to offer help. She regularly brought meals to the home of sick friends and neighbors. And she always ensured that every child who crossed her threshold was safe, healthy, and happy.

Melanie was preceded in death by her father, Jack Helvey, her mother, Diane (nee-Basola) Solomon, her sister Kimberly (nee-Helvey) Kolve, brothers Michael and Christopher Helvey, and her precious grandson Levi Lucero. She is survived by her husband, Danny Leonard; sons Justin Helvey, Dillon Ballowe and William (and daughter-in-law Kiersten) McKorkle; her daughters, Danielle Leonard, Courtney (nee-Leonard) Fanning, Ruth (nee-McKorkle) Billings and son-in-law Austin; 14 grandchildren; stepmother, Dorothy Helvey; a brother, Jeffrey Helvey and sister, Jennifer (nee-Helvey) Young and several nieces and nephews.

The family invites you to join them for a homegoing service. The service will be held on June 23, 2023, at the Net Community Church, 1255 S. Hackman St., Staunton, IL. The visitation will be from 9:00am – 11:00 am, with the homegoing service beginning at 11:00.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in Melanie’s honor.