Gregory Thomas Leech, age 34, a man whose love and laughter lifted up all those around him and whose sole purpose in life was dedicating himself to the service of others, finally found peace on August 19, 2018 in Nashville, TN. Greg was born May 5, 1984 to James Leech and Elaine Haas in Santa Clara, California. He attended Bryce Valley High School in Tropic, Utah where he was engaged in sports but excelled in mischief, laughter, fun, and a rampant imagination. We soon realized his talents for writing, drawing, carpentry, and a determination to do things and make sure they were done well.
Being motivated to action on 9-11, he joined the military as a member of the infantry right out of high school, where, once again, he excelled. A life of service committed to fighting enemies of American ideals, he quickly rose in rank to Master Sergeant and to the top tier of Americas counter terrorism fighting forces.
Greg’s two most important achievements however occurred with the births of his two daughters, Leyna and Everly Kate Leech. Leyna sadly passed away on September 22, 2006. His conduct in the presence of his daughter Everly defined in the purest sense of the words a “loving father”. He saw it as his duty and privilege to love, adore, protect, respect, and guide his little girl, and treated her as a most precious gift.
No one who knew Greg can deny that he was the life of the party. To him everyone was family. You came first, and Greg was there to do the heavy lifting if you needed. He loved the outdoors. Hiking, camping, camp fires, and repelling. Reading and music were his happy relaxing escapes. And…he loved TSwift waaay more than a grown man of his standing should. Just sayin brother. But when you’ve achieved the following who cares. Deployments: Two to Iraq, two to Afghanistan, two to Africa. Awards: Afghanistan campaign medal with two campaign stars; Iraq campaign medal with two campaign stars; Bronze star medal; purple heart; meritorious service medal (2nd award); joint service commendation medal; army commendation medal (3rd award); joint service achievement medal; defense service medal; global war on terrorism expeditionary medal; global war on terrorism service medal; noncommissioned officer professional development ribbon (3rd award); army service ribbon; over seas service ribbon; NATO medal; combat infantryman badge; expert infantryman badge; special forces tab; ranger tab; military freefall parachutes; parachutist badge; jumpmaster; parachutist badge.
He is survived by his parents; daughter, Everly; brother: Timothy (Shanna) Leech; grandmother, Helma Haas.
Shared from Magleby Mortuary
I’m so deeply sorry! My sincere condolences to his family. I understand what you’re going as I too lost my brother this way. I don’t know how to take your pain away, I’ve had to learn to live each day with mine. Talk about him as much as possible and always carry him with you, he is with you! Pay attention to the signs. May your beautiful hero Rest In Peace.