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Leeroy Vanover, age 86, of Johnson City, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 06, 2026, at his residence. He was born in Erwin to the late Charlie Vanover and Gertrude Miller Vanover. Leeroy was raised in Erwin then he moved to Michigan for his work before returning to East Tennessee twenty years ago.
Leeroy retired from General Motors where he was employed as a photographer for Buick. He was a veteran of the Army Reserves.
Leeroy attended Maranatha Tabernacle. He was a member of the Jericho Shriner’s. Leeroy loved nature and captured the beauty of the East Tennessee Mountains in his photographs. He was also a talented videographer.
Leeroy enjoyed listening to all genres of music and was an avid Hockey fan.
In addition to his parents, Leeroy was preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Janyce Kalhoun Vanover; his brother, Vernon Vanover and his sister, Wilma Vanover.
Leeroy leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted wife of fourteen years, Patsy Wilson McCurry; son, Tommy Vanover of Flint, MI; daughter, Tami Vanover of Knoxville; grandchildren: Jonathan Vanover and Elizabeth Vanover; sister, Geraldine Vanover of Flint, MI; several nieces and nephews also survive.
Leeroy’s graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, in the McInturff Cemetery, Rock Creek Community, with Reverend E.L. Wheeler officiating. Music will be provided by Larry Pate. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 12:50 p.m. on Thursday.
Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Vanover family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com
Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Vanover family. (423) 743-1380
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