On July 5, 2006, Leland Stylles Spears entered the world early and fighting as a 27-week preemie. Alongside his parents, he overcame a traumatic birth and a 74-day NICU stay, crossing the finish line to a home filled with pure hope. Shortly after his first birthday, tragedy struck. Though the event left Leland with a broken body, it could never touch his soul, which remained beautiful and whole. For twenty years, he blessed his family with his presence – sharing an inseparable bond with his brother, Jayden, and carrying a deep, protective love for his little sister, Evey, in this heart.

On Sunday, August 16, surrounded by his family, Leland's long journey came to an incredibly peaceful end at 10:12am. He left this world just as he lived in it: surrounded by absolute devotion. His joyful smile and amazing spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

A memorial service to celebrate Leland's life will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, September 4 at Mercer-Adams Funeral Service Chapel.