Leonel Gonzalez Jr

Leonel Gonzalez Jr., age 74, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Leonel was born in Texas and later resided in McAllen, Texas. Throughout his life, he also lived in Wyoming, Michigan for over 30 years before settling in Harrison County, Mississippi. A proud United States Army veteran, Leonel served his country honorably and carried that sense of duty, integrity, and strength with him throughout his life.

He devoted more than 30 years of dedicated service to General Motors, where he worked as a Hi-Lo driver, known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and quiet determination.

Leonel was preceded in death by his parents, Leonel Gonzalez Sr. and Carmen Nava Gonzalez.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Alicia Gonzalez, whose life was filled with love, partnership, and unwavering devotion beside him. Leonel was a proud and loving father to his four children: Leonel Gonzalez III of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Debbie Rivas of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Monica Gonzalez of Gulfport, Mississippi; and Jennifer Gonzalez of Gulfport, Mississippi.

Leonel was one of a large family and is also survived by six brothers and four sisters, along with many extended relatives and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was deeply proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. He is survived by his 15 grandchildren, including Giovanna Green, Angelina Gonzalez, Angelo Gonzalez, and Germaine Green, along with seven grandsons and four granddaughters, residing in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Leonel also leaves behind 16 great-grandchildren, including Giovanni Green, Madison Mendez, Germaine Green Jr., and Geremiah Green, as well as four great-grandsons and eight great-granddaughters, living in Gulfport, Mississippi, and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

In his free time, Leonel enjoyed reading and watching westerns, especially stories rooted in history. He found peace in the outdoors through hunting and fishing, and he took great pride in woodworking, creating with his hands and heart.

We say goodbye with heavy hearts, yet with deep gratitude for the many years we shared and the love Leonel gave so freely. His memory will live on in all who knew him, carried forward through his family, his stories, and the generations that follow.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Gonzalez family.