Janniece Vernelle Leonard

Celebrating the Life of Janniece Vernelle Leonard "Niecey" October 16, 1963 – July 8, 2026 Some people pass through this world leaving memories. Others leave a legacy of love. Janniece Vernelle Leonard, affectionately known as "Niecey," left both. Born in New York City on October 16, 1963, Janniece was a radiant light whose presence made every room brighter. Like her favorite flower, the sunflower, she naturally turned toward the light and inspired others to do the same. Her joyful spirit, infectious smile, generous heart, and unwavering kindness made people feel seen, valued, and loved. She never met a stranger—only someone who had not yet become a friend. Janniece believed that everyone deserved encouragement and an opportunity to grow. She devoted herself to mentoring and uplifting young adults, helping them recognize their potential and pursue both personal and professional success. She celebrated the victories of others as if they were her own and found genuine joy in watching people flourish. Her heart for service extended far beyond her family. If someone needed advice, a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply someone to believe in them, Janniece was there. She gave freely of her time, resources, wisdom, and love without expecting anything in return. Countless lives were changed because they crossed her path—even if only for a brief moment. Family was one of Janniece's greatest treasures. With unwavering love and devotion, she shared the responsibility of caring for her father alongside her beloved sister, Laverne M. Leonard, demonstrating the compassion and selflessness that defined her life. Janniece was educated in the New York City public school system, attending P.S. 180 Elementary School, Wadleigh Junior High School, and Martin Luther King Jr. High School, before earning her Bachelor's degree. She built a distinguished career with organizations including Black Enterprise, Dean Witter Morgan Stanley, the House of Chatham, the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, and in SAWTST, government contracting as a Human Resources Manager. No matter where she worked, she earned the respect of colleagues through her professionalism, integrity, and genuine care for people. Raised in a faith-filled family, Janniece accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at Rock Christian Church in Atlanta, Ga in 2001. Her faith was evident in the life she lived. She served her community with humility, advocated for others, participated with community organizations, and generously donated clothing, toiletries, and other necessities to local women's shelters because she believed everyone deserved hope, dignity, and a fresh start. She found happiness in life's simple blessings—gardening, sewing, do-it-yourself home projects, bowling, and bringing smiles to the faces of family, friends, and even strangers.In the year 1996 Janniece Leonard married Gregory Alan Martin and through their union they produced Janniece’s greatest joy; her children. Her daughter, Janniece Rachel-Marie Martin, affectionately known as "Lady Bug," and her son, Jared Taylor Martin, lovingly called "Jay," were the pride of her life. She also shared a special bond with her stepdaughter, Shanna Harris, her stepson, Jason Martin, and her beloved fur baby, Bear, who brought her endless companionship and unconditional love. She also was a bonus mom to Tiffany Hines, with open loving arms. Janniece leaves to celebrate her beautiful life with her loving children, Janniece Rachel-Marie Martin, Jared Taylor Martin, Shanna Harris, and Jason Martin; her devoted sister, Laverne M. Leonard; her beloved fur baby, Bear; a host of loving nieces and nephews, cherished cousins, Esther Frederick, Harold Moore, Karen Frederick, Harriett Frederick, Vee Frederick, from her mother's family lineage. Beloved sisters from another mother, treasured friends, and all whose lives were forever changed by knowing her. She leaves behind a world that is better because she was in it—and one that will deeply feel the loss of her absence. Today we do not simply mourn Janniece's passing—we celebrate a life lived with purpose, compassion, grace, and faith. As Scripture reminds us: "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." — Ecclesiastes 3:1 Janniece's season on earth was filled with love, service, encouragement, and unwavering faith. While we grieve her absence, we rejoice in the countless lives she touched and the legacy she leaves behind. Her light cannot be extinguished because it lives on in every person she encouraged, every heart she comforted, and every life she changed. Like the sunflower she loved, Janniece always reached toward the light. Though we can no longer see her smile, its warmth remains with us, reminding us to live with joy, love without limits, and always lift others higher. Until we meet again, we will celebrate the beautiful season God gave us with our beloved Janniece (Niecey). "Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Tributes

Janniece Vernelle Leonard

October 16, 1963 - July 8, 2026