Leonard Abbey

The stories of Leonard Ray Abbey, Jr., a man of Virgil known for his wandering spirit and steadfast heart, found their final chapter on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. He passed away at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita at the age of 88.

He was born on July 30, 1937, in Dover, Oklahoma, the son of Leonard Ray Sr. and Bessie Irene (Moad) Abbey. Raised in various communities across Oklahoma, Leonard eventually entered the United States Air Force. While in the service, he earned his GED in Mulhall, Oklahoma, and was later stationed in Spain for four years. His time abroad remained a highlight of his life; he often recounted stories of encountering classic film stars on movie sets, meeting Bob Hope's brother, and being captivated by the artistry of flamenco dancers. Following his honorable discharge, he moved to Texas, where he contributed to the state’s growth by building dams and bridges in Borger, Bridgeport, and San Antonio.

It was in San Antonio that Leonard met his wife, Mary Louise Maspero. They were united in marriage on February 18, 1967, and were blessed with three children. After living in Duncanville, Texas, the family relocated to Yates Center, Kansas. Leonard began a long and dedicated career at the Wolf Creek Generating Station, where he worked in custodial services before managing the Tool Room. He took great pride in his work and the friendships he built there until his retirement in 2011. He was preceded in death by Mary on July 11, 2010.

A man of simple pleasures and a legendary social spirit, Leonard never knew a stranger. He possessed a gift for storytelling and was an avid reader of Westerns. He cherished his Oklahoma roots, frequently traveling for class reunions in Mulhall, and spent his retirement years gardening, dining out, and admiring vintage tractors and cars. He will be remembered as a man who valued hard work, a good story, and the company of others.

Leonard is survived by his children: Mary and husband, Bernard Hesse of Yates Center, Kansas; Leonard Ray Abbey, III of Claremore, Oklahoma; and Stuart and wife, Kimberly Abbey of Columbus, Kansas; three grandchildren; his sister, Darlene and husband, Jerry Lemen of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; his brother, Calvin Abbey of Worland, Wyoming; and two half-sisters, Marjorie Fink of Leavenworth, Kansas and Peggy Perrion of Easton, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and one sister, Bonita Greene.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Koup Family Funeral Home in Eureka, with Father Jeremy Huser of Sacred Heart Catholic Church officiating. Interment will follow at Janesville Cemetery in Hamilton. Visitation hours are scheduled from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the American Heart Association. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at koupfunerals.com.