Mary Jo Leonhardt

Mary Jo Leonhardt, 66, of Girardville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18th, at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, with her loving family by her side.

Born in Ashland, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Margaret (Tighe) Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Shoup and a brother who passed in infancy, Baby Boy Smith.

Mary Jo touched countless lives throughout her years, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts of many. Through her work running a daycare and a dance studio, she helped raise generations of children, offering not only guidance and structure, but unconditional love. To so many, Mary Jo was more than a caregiver or instructor — she was the true epitome of the word mom, providing comfort, encouragement, and a safe place to grow. Her nurturing spirit, patience, and dedication will forever be remembered by the many lives she shaped.

Mary Jo is survived by her husband of 40 years, John “Mike” Leonhardt, of Girardville; two daughters, Kayla Leonhardt, of Frackville, and Kelsey Leonhardt and her fiancé, Pierce Heller, of Tremont; two sisters, Annabelle Mortimer and Helen Smith; her cherished grandchildren, Noah Richard Leonhardt and Ella Anne Mayeresky; her beloved dog, Olive and by several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 23rd, at 2:00 p.m. from the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Girardville, with Fr. Guency Isaac officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Tuesday from 12:00 noon until the time of service at the funeral home.

To sign the guestbook, leave personal condolences, or for further information, please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com.

The Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Inc., of Girardville, is entrusted with the arrangements.