Daniel Benny Leonardo, Jr

It is with heavy heart that we announce the passing of Daniel “Butch” Benny Leonardo, 80, of Azle, Texas. Daniel passed away peacefully, at his home on June 29, 2025, due to natural causes. Daniel was born on June 10, 1945, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, to Daniel and Mary Leonardo. He spent most of his life in Keller, Texas, where he and his wife, Janice (Mancini) Leonardo, raised their family. The couple married on July 29, 1967, and shared 59 wonderful years together.

Daniel proudly served in the United States Army from 1960-1963 and was stationed in Germany. After his military service, he worked in many trades including law enforcement, bartending, and construction. He later became a superintendent at Mid-Continent Builders, where he oversaw projects including the building of McDonald’s restaurants. Dan's love of horses, outdoors, trucks and Texas, lead him and his son Donnie into lifetime of roping and later Dan and Janice team penning.

Above all, Daniel cherished his wife, country, Italian heritage, family dinners, and celebrating the successes of his children. He is survived by his loving wife, Janice; their two children, Dominick Leonardo and Kelli & (Steve) Bennett, two grandchildren, Brooke and Paige Bennett; sister, Phyllis Leonardo, and preceded in death by his brothers; Benny and Dominick Leonardo, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A memorial funeral service is scheduled at Whites Funeral Home, of Azle at 2 p.m. September 15 2025.