Rebecca Hollifield Leonard

Rebecca (Becky) Hollifield Leonard, age 88, of Columbia, SC passed away on October 14, 2026 after a lengthy battle with COPD.

Becky was an incredibly loving and caring person to both people and critters. .She was quick witted with a great sense of humor and could laugh until there were tears. She was so kind and the world’s most loving mother.

Becky was born in Marion, NC to Sewell and Devola Hollifield. She and her younger sister, Bettye, grew up in a home full of love, can-do attitude and good southern cooking.

Becky was a perfectionist and loved organization with most things she did, including her work. Her professional career was that of an administrative assistant.

She had a deep appreciation for all things handmade. She was a skilled seamstress. She loved cross stitch, with some of her projects winning awards. She enjoyed collecting Hilton pottery. She always had a project in the works.

Family was very important to Becky. Her conversations always ended with I love you, be careful. She and her only child B-Linda shared a very special bond. When B-Linda married Bill, Becky was convinced he was the greatest son-in-law ever! She became an instant grandmother to Heather and Charlie, and a great grandmother to Garrett and Sammy. The family became even more complete with Heather’s husband John and Charlie’s wife Michelle. She adored them all and they could not have been more loving and supportive of her.

Becky had one younger sister Bettye and they were always very close. That closeness continued throughout their lives, even if separated by time and distance. They stayed in frequent contact always knowing what was going on in each other’s lives, picking up where they last left off. Bettye had one child, Wendy. Becky dearly loved her only niece and was always laughing at Wendy’s incredible sense of humor.

Becky remarried later in life to Gene Leonard. She loved him dearly. His career took them to many places and adventures. They always had a large group of friends. There was always a special place in her heart for his daughters , Janet, Pam and Hope.

Becky loved her pets and all critters. There were always cats and dogs in her life, even a groundhog that lived under the porch when she was a child. They were all loved and very spoiled.

Becky was a woman of strong faith. She read her bible and devotions daily. She always had a prayer list and prayed daily.

Becky was an incredibly special person. There will never be another like her. She was as tender hearted as they come. She was much loved and will be missed beyond words. Comfort is taken in that she was greeted by family, friends and critters that went before her.

In lieu of flowers we ask that you do a kind deed or make a donation to an animal rescue organization. A service will be held at a later date.