Leon Eugene Devance's Obituary
Leon Eugene Devance passed away suddenly on April 10, 2026, at the age of 66. Although he earned a living in many fields, Leon was a dedicated freelance photojournalist whose career reflected both technical skill and a deep passion for storytelling through images. A lifelong sports enthusiast—especially devoted to the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals—he was known for his work in sports photography. With a sharp eye for timing and composition, he specialized in capturing live sports action across high school, college, and amateur levels. He was a member of the National Professional Photographers Association, Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists, and Society of Professional Journalists St. Louis Pro Chapter. Leon was a proud graduate of Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). He began his academic journey earning an associate’s degree at Penn Valley Community College (KCMO). Committed to continual growth, he further honed his craft through coursework at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, St. Louis Community College, UMSL, and various workshops. In addition to his photography, Leon contributed as a freelance sportswriter for publications including the Alton Telegraph and the St. Louis American. During his time at UMSL, he served as sports editor for the student newspaper, The Current. Beyond his professional life, Leon had a deep passion for music. In the early 1980s, he hosted a radio show at Penn Valley Community College, sharing his love for a wide range of genres. He was also an enthusiastic fan of 1970s television and a dedicated trivia buff, known among family and friends for his impressive recall and lively conversations. He accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized in the Church of the Living God, CWFF. Leon was the eldest son of Helen and James Devance. He passed away exactly one week shy of the first anniversary of his beloved mother’s passing, a poignant reminder of the close bond they shared. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving father, James; twin siblings Larry and Donita; brother-in-law, Phumuza Manzini; nephews, Sandile, Khari, and Yimani Manzini; a paternal aunt, Doris Patton; and a host of cousins, friends, and colleagues. Leon Eugene Devance’s legacy lives on through the moments he captured, the stories he told through his lens, and the lives he touched along the way. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to: Church of the Living God, Temple of Faith Library 1610 So. Florissant ♦ Cool Valley, Missouri 63121
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