Leon Folks Zellars of McKinney, Texas, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on October 30, 2020, at the age of 79.  He was born on August 9, 1941 to Edna Gregory (Rutledge) and Herschel Cox Zellars in Little Elm, Texas. On June 14, 1968, Leon married Peggy Lois Vandeventer in Frisco, Texas. Leon was a 1959 graduate of Frisco High School where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball which spawned a lifelong love of sports. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Dallas Baptist University.

Leon worked for Texas Instruments for 36 years and retired as a Logistics Engineer.  He was a proud Mason of the Roy Stanley Masonic Lodge #1367 and received his 50-year pin in 2019. The owner of Zellars Art & Frame, he was an accomplished artist, photographer, framer, and calligrapher.  He was a sought-after art teacher and calligraphy instructor, often conducting classes for Frisco ISD’s Continuing Education program.  He generously shared his talents with his church and community by engaging in activities such as designing and painting backdrops for Frisco Community Theater productions.  Leon was a very active member of Rhea’s Mill Baptist Church for 40 years where he faithfully served in numerous ministries.  He was an avid golfer, he loved to travel and seldom missed viewing the bluebonnets blooming in the hill country. He ardently followed Frisco sports teams, especially the Liberty High School girls basketball team, cheering them to victory at the state championship tournament recently.

Leon is survived by his wife of 52 years, Peggy Zellars; his daughter, Angela Clarke and her husband Michael; two grandchildren, Charles Colby Richards and his wife, Erin Green, and Sierra Mishae Montague; three brothers, Robert Zellars and his wife ,Rebecca, Leroy Zellars, Rodney Zellars and his wife, Joanie, plus numerous nieces and nephews. 

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Edna and Herschel Zellars, namesake of Zellars Learning Center in Little Elm.

Leon leaves his family and friends a cherished legacy of a kind and loving heart.  He will be remembered for not only his great sense of humor and many contributions to family, church, and community, but also for his wonderful personal values, including his integrity and deep love of God.

A Memorial Service will be conducted at Rhea’s Mill Baptist Church on November 14th at 1:00 p.m.  Inurnment will be held at Little Elm Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to UT Southwestern Medical Center to support Pancreatic Cancer Research.  Please send to: P.O. Box 910888, Dallas, TX 75391-0888 or online at: engage.utsouthwestern.edu