Barney Leard, Jr., 94, passed away Monday morning, May 5, surrounded by family. Born in Oklahoma, he lived most of his life in Saratoga and Oakdale, California. Barney is survived by his daughter Pam Leach and her wife, Dee; grandson John Travis Dovala, his wife Jessica, and their children, Scarlett, John Barney, and Theodore; and grandson Dustin Leard Dovala, his wife Elizabeth Booth, and their children Elliott and Dylan. Barney was married to his childhood sweetheart, Margaret, for 52 years until she entered into heaven in 2004.

Following graduation from Los Gatos High in California, Barney served in the United States Army and then graduated from Heald Business College. He was active in community service, including Optimist and Sportsman Clubs. He stayed active by hunting, fishing, racing quarter horses, and operating a cattle ranch. Barney enjoyed spending time with his family, most recently his great grandchildren, and was known for his epic Easter egg hunts. He lived an amazing life and will be deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, at Oakdale Memorial Chapel, 830 West F Street, Oakdale, with a reception immediately following at the Leard L3 Ranch, 11727 Rodden Road, Oakdale. He will be laid to rest in Los Gatos, CA.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

The Riverbank (Calif.) News

May 14, 2025