Leroy McIntosh Sr., 82, of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at University of Michigan West Hospital after an extended illness. The first son of Permon and Queen McIntosh, Leroy was born in Monticello, Florida and spent his formative years in Winter Haven, Florida. Upon graduating from Jewett High School, Leroy joined the Army as a member of the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. After serving in the Vietnam War, he moved to Grand Rapids where he met and married Rita Ellis. Leroy and Rita bought a home on Fuller S.E. where they were one of the first black families to own in the neighborhood. They raised their family there and were married until 2024.

Leroy later completed his associate’s degree and joined the Kent County Police Department as one of the first African American Sherrif Deputies. After 30 years at the County, Leroy retired from the Sherrif Department and served at the Federal Courthouse in Grand Rapids and later at Grand Rapids Public Schools as a bus driver.

While he loved to work, Leroy also loved to play. He enjoyed participating as a member of the First Community A.M.E. bowling league for over 40 years. He also enjoyed several hobbies including fishing, golfing, hunting, backgammon, and playing cards. He could often be heard shouting sayings like “You See it!” as he bowled strikes at the alley or pasting cards to his head while “Taking you to Boston” in Bid-Whist. He enjoyed spending time with friends and would constantly remind you he was doing “Absolutely Marvelous!” For over 30 years he served at First Community A.M.E. church in the Men’s Choir and as a Trustee. He also served as a “Youth Companion” where he mentored under-privileged youth. Most recently, he served as a greeter at Tabernacle Community Church.

A father of two, Leroy Jr and Michelle, Leroy spoke highly of his children and frequently shared his pride as a father. Blessed with his four grandchildren, Bryan Holt (Janessa), Nathanel Holt, Jada Woods, and Mya McIntosh and four great-grandchildren (Emily, Bryan III, Brayden, Storee), he enjoyed spending time with them and watching them grow. Leroy was preceded in death by his parents (Permon & Queen), and brothers Perman (Clara) and Eddie. He leaves behind his children Leroy Jr and Michelle Holt (Bryan Holt). He also leaves his siblings Lauretha, Queen (William) Samuel (Mary), Pearl, William (Audrey) and Tony (Vanessa) as well as a host of nephews and nieces.