Leon Hillard Underwood Jr.

Sanford, NC

Leon Hillard Underwood Jr. age 72, of Sanford, passed away on May 14, 2026 at his home. He was born November 26, 1953 in Lee County, son of Leon Hillard Underwood Sr. and Emily Elizabeth Gregory Underwood. He was preceded in death by his father, Leon Hillard Underwood Sr., his sister, Sandra Underwood and his daughter, Nicole Underwood. He is survived by his mother, Emily Elizabeth Gregory Underwood of Sanford; his daughter, Rebecca Ali (Majdi) of Cameron and his son Leon Underwood III (Samantha) of Broadway. Also surviving are his brothers; Ronnie Underwood of Cameron, Steve Underwood (Nancy) of Sanford and Terri Moses, Leon's beloved fiancé of Sanford, NC.    Other special memories are left in the hearts and minds of ten wonderful Grand-children and seven Great-grandchildren. Leon is best described as a Man's Man, admired for his strong work ethic and his constant desire to be of help to his fellow man and neighbors. He often assisted others without any expectation of anything in return, expressing that it was the right thing to do. He probably had only one enemy in this world and it was the dandelion flower. His beautiful green yard was a testament to his effort to wipe out the dandelion.  Leon graduated from Erwin High School in 1971. He went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army during the Vietnam era as a crew member on the Vulcan Air Defense System (VADS). He will be greatly missed for his humor, for being a philosopher, for being one who loved to travel, and his love for his military decorated Christmas tree. There will be a private family celebration of life at a later date.  Online condolences can be made at www.smithfuneralhomebroadway.com  Arrangements are by Smith Funeral Home, Broadway Inc