Leon Tackett

Leon Mycager Tackett
Leon Tackett, 83, of Independence, KS passed during the early morning hours on
Tuesday, March 22, 2022 in the comfort of his own home in Independence, surrounded
by loving family. He fought a long battle with Congenital heart failure, among other
complications and was recently placed on Hospice, after a short stay in the hospital.
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Potts Chapel.
Leon was born on October 1, 1938 in Independence, KS to William “Cage” and Laura
(Morgan) Tackett. He was one of 6 children - his siblings were Dorothy, Blanche, Earl,
Bill, and Vera. Leon grew up and attended school in Independence, KS.
May 30, 1959 Leon married the love of his life, Mary “Malese” Elledge in Hugo, OK.
Following their marriage, they traveled for many years, while Leon was employed with
the U.S. Geological Survey for over 26 years. They lived in at least 15 states during
their travels and returned to Kansas when Leon retired in 1986. They then made their
home in Independence, KS for the remainder of their lives.
Throughout their travels, Leon and Malese had 3 children. Daughter, Karen Malese
born in Hazelhurst, MS, daughter, Tammy Liane born in Texarkana, TX and a son,
Jeffrey Lyle born in Independence, KS.
Leon was known and loved by many, while working for Alexander Auction Service and
he then later when he worked for Byrd Auction Service and Marshall Auction Service.
You could always find him at an auction most of his life, in fact, his vehicle tag was
AUCTNUT for many years. He always had an ornery smile on his face and a hug for
most everyone he met. He also enjoyed being outside and working on his “Funny Farm”
in rural Independence where he raised a variety of chickens, guineas, donkeys, ducks
or any other critter that came along.
Leon was preceded in death by his loving wife, Malese in 2015, his parents and his 5
siblings. Leon is survived by his 3 children, Karen Ashworth of Independence, Tammy
Gilbreath (husband Kevin) of Udall, KS and Jeff Tackett (wife Kerri) of Moreland, GA.
Leon has 11 grandchildren - Shanna North (husband Clint) of Neodesha, KS, Corey
Ashworth stationed in Texas, Taryn Meeds (husband Devan) of Independence, Sarah
Pace (husband Dane) stationed in Florida, Emily Smith (husband Jacob) stationed in
Germany, Madison Nickle (husband Nick) of Independence, KS, Amanda Stoafer (Joel
Bolen) of Udall, KS and Cody, Brody (Brandie), Kennedy and Cage Tackett all of
Moreland, GA. Leon will soon have 11 great-grandchildren, as well. Addison, Mia and
Hope, Owen and Jared, Theo, Marcus and Luna, Ellie, Caroline and arriving
soon,Stella.
A Celebration of Life will be held at his home, 5044 CR 4100 (previously 4534 N 4100
St) from 1pm-4pm on Saturday, March 26, 2022. All family and friends are welcome to
drop in and join the family.