Robert Donald Leath Sr.

Robert Donald Leath, Sr. (aka “Don” and “Pop”) peacefully passed away on January 21, 2025, at the age of 84.

July 1, 1940, was a great day in Haleyville, Alabama when Don was born to John and Florene Leath. He spent his early life in Alabama and Mississippi, then moved to Memphis, TN. There he met his beloved wife, Sandra, when they were in middle school. In their 64 years of marriage, they raised 4 children—Don Jr., Rhonda, Jon and Dan, traveled to most states, a few provinces, several countries, and found homes in Tennessee, Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri, Florida and back to Missouri.

Before graduating high school, Don enlisted in the Marine Reserves and served his country for 7 years. In 1959, he began a 40+ year career in the computer industry. From its inception in the 1950s, he witnessed many changes from the early room-sized keypunch systems through today’s modern technology that fits in your hand.

Don’s success provided many opportunities for travel in the US and internationally, forming many relationships and lifelong friendships along the way. Europe, Rio, Pacific Northwest, and California (especially San Francisco & Monterey) were favorites, as well as recreational adventures from Florida in their RV.

Don loved golf. He was a long-time member of Four Seasons and Caloosa golf clubs, and was fortunate to enjoy opportunities playing at Pebble Beach, Sawgrass, St. Andrews in Scotland, and passed on the golf gene to his kids and grandkids.

If you got a chance to speak with Don, you’d soon find out his greatest joy was his family. Don’s voice would fill with pride when he discussed his late son Don (Cheryl) Leath Jr., Rhonda (Mark) Untrauer, Jon (Kelli) Leath, and Dan (Mary Jo) Leath. Don was also blessed to be the proud grandfather of Jake (Anna) Leath, Elizabeth “Libby” Leath, Ashley (Amanda) Scott, Chelsae (Blake) Oelze, Alex Leath, and Maggie and Annie Leath; and great grandfather to Evan, Lillie, Lylah and expected great grandbaby in 2025. He will be dearly missed by all.

Don will be remembered by his family for his support, love…and BBQ ribs; by his colleagues for his hard work ethic; and by all for his ability to strike up a conversation. Don never met a stranger.

Many thanks and gratitude are extended to Don’s hospice care providers, his retirement community, and to all for your love, thoughts and prayers. A private memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are appreciated.

To honor Don, enjoy a Manhattan in his memory, and we’ll close this dedication with his favorite farewell catch phrase… “Cheers!”