Leonard Elex Headrick

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Leonard “Johnny” Elex Headrick, 86, of Quitman, Texas, on December 21, 2024. Born on July 11, 1938, in Cullman, Alabama, to the late E.B. and Francis Headrick, Leonard lived a full and extraordinary life defined by love, generosity, and passion.

Leonard is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 66 years, Christine Headrick; his children, Bill (Lee) Headrick, Camie Headrick-Cowles (Cody Cowles), and Carrie Worden; his grandchildren, Jonathan Headrick, Makaela Worden, Lauren Headrick; and his sister, Dorothy (Richard) Laney. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jerry Headrick; sister, Candy MacManus; and his infant granddaughter, Brittany Groskopf, daughter of Camie.

He was a man of many passions—racing, hunting, fishing, playing cards and board games, skiing, horseback riding and calf roping. In his late teens, he found excitement racing motorcycles, and by his twenties, that love for speed led him to racing stock cars. Racing was his passion for many years, one he would pass down and eventually share with his son, Bill

Leonard was also known to be quite the pool shark. He had a sharp eye and a natural feel for the game. In his younger days, he spent plenty of time at the table—and rumor has it, he may have hustled a few folks now and then, always with a grin and a good story to follow.

Leonard’s life journey began on the family farm in Alabama, where he developed a strong work ethic and love for hands-on craftsmanship. He proudly served as a jet mechanic in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1959.

In May of 1959, Leonard married Christine Dunn, who became the love of his life. Their journey took them to Delray Beach, Florida, where Leonard worked as a custom cabinet maker. Over the years, he also held roles as a licensed machinist, welder, and journeyman carpenter. Eventually, they settled in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where they would build a life, raise their family, and run a successful business.

In 1970, Leonard and Christine founded C&L Contracting (formerly C&L Excavating), which they owned and operated for over 40 years before closing the business and retiring in 2016. Leonard’s work left a lasting impact across the community—completing government contracts at NORAD, Fort Carson, Peterson Air Force Base, Schriver, and the Air Force Academy, as well as contributing to local landmarks like Fargo’s Pizza in Colorado Springs. He was widely respected for his integrity, craftsmanship, and dedication to his employees and clients alike.

Leonard was a faithful member of Galley Road Baptist Temple in Colorado Springs, where he served as a Deacon for many years. His faith guided the way he treated others—with humility, warmth, and unwavering love.

Leonard’s generosity knew no bounds. He and Christine often opened their home to family, friends, and even their children’s friends—offering a safe place to stay, a helping hand, or guidance to those working to get back on their feet or launch a new venture. He freely gave his time and skills. Many lives were touched by his steady presence and selfless spirit.

That same spirit defined him as a father. He was a Webelos leader when Bill was young, and as Bill’s passion for stock car racing grew, Leonard was right there beside him—serving as a loyal pit crew member and spending countless Saturday nights at racetracks. Their bond deepened over shared passions—working on cars, building, and flying model planes, and spending time outdoors fishing and hunting together.

When Camie and Carrie fell in love with horses, Leonard supported them wholeheartedly. He attended farrier school, earning a certification to care for the family’s horses. The family became active members of the Sandrifter’s Riding Club, where Leonard served on the Board of Directors, joined a calf roping team as the heeler, and volunteered as a flagger at many events. His support turned into a shared love of horsemanship, from competitive shows to peaceful trail rides. At the shows, he was affectionately known as “Dad” to many of his daughters’ friends—always ready to lend a hand and help anyone in need.

In their earlier years, Leonard and Christine made the most of every season together—camping, snow skiing, and riding ATVs through the countryside. They loved spending time with family and friends, often gathering to play cards or share a meal. They took country western dance lessons and enjoyed time on the dance floor. Whether they were out fishing, boating, or simply relaxing side by side, they genuinely enjoyed each other’s company and the simple pleasures of life together.

Of all his hobbies, bass fishing brought him the most peace and joy. For three decades, he and Christine split their time between Colorado and Texas, until they sold their long-time home in Colorado Springs and made Quitman their permanent home in 2023. There, on the edge of Lake Fork, he found what he had always dreamt of: a lakefront home with his boathouse and a peaceful place to cast a line - it was his dream fulfilled. He loved fishing tournaments, big and small, and never missed a chance to cast a line.

When he wasn’t fishing, Leonard could be found playing poker with friends, working on home projects, or sketching ideas for his next invention. He had the mind of an engineer and the hands of a craftsman—always creating, always improving.

Leonard was a devoted husband, a proud father, a beloved grandpa, and a loyal friend. He always put his family first, and his love and dedication were evident in all that he did. He poured himself into his family and community, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, laughter, and love. Leonard will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he helped create.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Quitman Public Library - Quitman, TX.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Leonard’s memory by donating to the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation—a cause that reflects his generous heart and love for sharing the joy of fishing with others, especially children. C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation - Carry on Johnny Headrick’s Spirit ~ One Cast at a Time

🎣 Carry on Johnny Headrick’s Spirit ~ One Cast at a Time

C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation - Carry on Johnny Headrick’s Spirit ~ One Cast at a Time