A Celebration of Life for David Leamon will be held at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library on May 9, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
David Leamon, 78, died Monday April 23, 2018 at The Windsor of Lawrence in Lawrence, KS.
He was born July 31, 1939 in Independence, MO, son of Arthur and Lillie Leamon. He earned degrees from Central Missouri State University in English, Theater and Art Education. He went on to get a Masters of Library Science from Case Western Reserve University.
He worked in a variety of libraries around the country until he became the director of the Jackson District Library in Jackson, MI. where he helped to modernize and expand the libraries in the area. He then moved to San Antonio and worked with renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta and built the main library there before settling finally in Topeka in 1992. Working with Michael Graves he oversaw the development and expansion of the Topeka and Shawnee County Public library which was recently voted Library of the Year in 2017.
He married his wife Audrey (Kaull) Leamon on July 7, 1967, and she survives him. Other survivors include their daughters, Laurel Leamon, Topeka; Anna Leamon; Lawrence; two grandchildren Lily Opgaard and Isaac Barrett; two sons-in-law, Tony Farrell and Todd Ellison; two sisters; Mary Pimblott and Jeanne Lauderdale, both of Independence; and a brother Roy Leamon, also of Independence.
Anyone who would like to share a memory will have an opportunity to do so beginning at 4:00 pm. There will be time for visiting and sharing stories from 3:00-4:00 pm.
April 29, 2018
Dear Audrey and family,
I was sorry to read of David’s passing. What a wonderful person. When I worked at TPAC and he was involved with the Czar, I got acquainted with him. He was always so kind and helpful to everyone. Words say very little at a time like this, but knowing people are thinking of you , maybe helps. I hope so.
Sincerely,
I enjoyed visiting with David at The Windsor (when I visited my aunt and uncle). He enjoyed looking at the Country magazine we brought which had scenic, beautiful photos. I helped him once with a puzzle. He was pleasant and always checked if I needed the magazine back. The family is in my thoughts and prayers.
My condolences to you, Audrey, and your family – I think of you every day since I read the Sunday paper. We share things with our husbands that we do not share with anyone else. The quietness may consume us when we least expect. You are lucky to be surrounded with your family and your wide circle of friends. I will always treasure the relationship I and my family, especially Mary, had with you and David. We hope to continue that golden friendship with you.
David was a close friend, colleague and confidant for over 30 years. He was always available for an in-depth dialogue on an endless variety of subject matter. His insights were thoughtful, humorous, balanced, positive, encouraging and imaginative. He is missed.
My sincere condolences to Audrey, family and friends.
Larry J Frank
The Topeka and Shawnee Co. Public Library is one of our community’s finest assets, and David Leamon played a major role in making the library outstanding. I fondly remember David Leamon and his commitment to our community. My husband, Max, and I were honored to become friends with David and his wife, Audrey, including being invited to their home. David was also involved with creating the Aaron Douglas Art Park, near the library, another community asset. My condolences go to the Leamon family in their loss. We’ll all miss David.