It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Leland “Leroy” Newell, Jr., 64, who passed away in his home in Independence, Missouri, on June 6, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at his church, The Church at Three Trails, in Independence, Missouri, on June 20th, 2026, at 10 am for visitation and 11 am for service. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Olive Branch Cemetery in Milo, Missouri. Leland was born on August 11, 1961, in Independence, Missouri, the son of Leland L. Newell, Sr. and Beulah “Lucille” (Hamilton) Newell.

He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1979 and attended SMSU and Longview College. He worked for the Folgers Coffee roasting plant in Kansas City for 20+ years. Leland never knew a stranger. His magnetism drew people to him. He loved sharing his faith with anyone, whether a cashier at the grocery store, someone at a gas pump, or praying gently over his loved ones.

He could be seen driving around town in his old 90s red jeep without the top. Leland was a man of many talents. He played baseball and football in his youth. He went on to play baseball for SMSU and Longview College, where he posted a 422 batting average. Never one to boast about his accomplishments, he became a legend in his own quiet and unforgettable way. He then went on to coach his daughter Sam’s softball league, and was the fun coach that everyone adored. He was also a die-hard Royals and Chiefs fan. Not only was he gifted in sports, but he was musically talented. He taught himself to play the guitar and loved playing, writing, and recording his own songs. He would have buddies over for jam sessions. Some of his favorites were the songs he wrote for him and his daughter to perform together, My Little Tom Boy and The Grocery Store Song. He was also proud of “Jackie’s Song” for his sister, his best friend. Leland had a community everywhere and lifelong friendships he valued dearly. He specifically loved spending time at the family farm with his nephew Chris (Allison) and niece, Misty, along with his great nieces and nephews, and family and friends. He enjoyed keeping everyone laughing with pranks and shenanigans, playing music at the campfire. He loved his animals, woodworking, and building furniture from the trees at the farm, mowing and tending to his garden at home. He is survived by his daughter, Samantha Callahan (Wilson-Newell), and husband, Colin, of Kansas City.

His sister, Gwendolyn Hunner (Newell) of Harrisonville, MO, his brother-in-law, Dennis Willis, his niece Misty Owens, his nephew Chris, and his wife, Alli Owens, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins, his dog, Henry, his cat, Leon, and ducks, Hank and Mertle.

Leland was preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Lucille Newell; his sisters, Sherry Parsons (Newell), Ginger Newell, and Jacquelyn Owens (Newell); and his sister-in-law, Roger Parsons. His brother-in-law, Larry Hunner. Nephews, Dennis John Willis, Jr., and John Daniel Owens. Niece, Deanna Parsons. And Great Nephew, Khai Hunner.