J.J. Leek

Janice Kay (J.J.) Leek, age 69, of Ozark, passed away Tuesday, January 4, 2022. She was born December 3, 1952 in Granby, the daughter of Denzil and Edith (Baldwin) Thrasher. J.J. grew up in Goodman where her parents owned a grocery store. She graduated from Neosho High School, and attended College of the Ozarks with a major in business administration.

She was united in marriage to Russell Joseph Leek. J.J. worked 33 years in computer operations and management in the healthcare and manufacturing fields working for A.C. Buckhorn in Springfield, Syntex in Verona, and Skaggs Hospital, Branson. After retirement in 2008, she operated J.J.’s Berry Patch at their home south of Ozark. J.J. was very involved in the community, she was a Master Gardener and Ozark Plant Society member, sold her berries at the at Nixa Farmers Market, and was on the Christian County Fair Board. She also was a member of the Ag & Mechanical Committee, and served on the board of directors of White River Electric Company. J.J. was a member of First Baptist Church of Ozark.

Survivors include: Her husband of 48 years, Russell; two children, Danielle Gardner and David Johnston of Ozark, and Michelle Kurtz and husband Jamie of Pomona; grandchildren, Brynna Gardner, Ethan Gardner, Ian Kurtz, Kelby Kurtz, and Aida Kurtz; siblings, Carol David and Phillip, Gary Thrasher, and Susie Brookman and Bill; nieces and nephews. Her parents preceded her in death as well as her step-mother, June Thrasher.

A memorial visitation will be 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Saturday, January 8, in Adams Funeral Home, Ozark.

Cremation rites have been accorded by Adams Crematory.