Lola Jackson was born on April 16, 1937, in Palatka, Florida, to Carrie Maxwell Jackson and Samuel Jackson. She was the eldest of four siblings, including her brothers, Samuel Jackson Jr., Frederick Matthews and Eston Batts. At the tender age of 10, Lola moved to Lakeland with her grandmother and younger brother, where she learned the art of sewing. Through her skill, she not only clothed herself but also earned a living.

On March 3, 1956, Lola entered into matrimony with Willie C. Leonard, and together they were blessed with six children. Lola took immense pride in proclaiming, "I have three girls and three boys," showcasing her love and commitment to her family.  After her first grandchild was born, she was affectionately known as Momma Lola .

Throughout her life, Lola held various jobs, but her passion and talent for sewing remained constant. She dedicated herself to her craft, eventually establishing her own business, Lola’s Sewing-N-Sew Place, becoming a revered master seamstress in her community.

Lola's expertise extended beyond her personal ventures. She performed alterations for prominent stores such as Maas Brothers, which later transitioned into Burdines and eventually Macy’s. Her meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled skill made her a sought-after professional in her field. Lola was a perfectionist in all aspects of her life, a trait she imparted to her children. Lola taught her girls to sew, if a stitch was wrong or crooked her favorite phrase was, "rip it” meaning take it out and do it over.  Lola instilled the value of diligence and perfection in her off springs.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lola's true pride and joy were her family. She nurtured each of her children according to their individual needs, particularly demonstrating her strength and compassion while caring for two children afflicted with Sickle Cell Anemia. Lola's nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, reaching out to friends, neighbors, and anyone in need.

Lola and Willie celebrated 50 years of marriage, during which they became the loving grandparents of seven grandchildren. Throughout their journey together, Lola instilled in her family the importance of strong work ethics and unwavering perfectionism. Her legacy lives on not only through her exceptional craftsmanship but also through the values she imparted to her loved ones.

In the hearts of those who knew her, Lola Leonard will forever be remembered as a beacon of strength, love, and dedication - a true matriarch whose legacy of excellence and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come.

Lola was proceeded in death by her loving husband, Willie C. Leonard, daughter, Carolyn E. Woods and son, Harold L. Leonard.

Momma Lola leaves many people and precious memories with her family. She is survived by her children, Wendell L. Leonard (Linda), Sharon L. Stevens (Chester), Deborah D. Leonard, Gerald J. Leonard (Edith); grandchildren: Darius L. Peterson, Nicolette M. Woods, Arielle M. Milligan (Hamik), Jason A. Leonard, Matthew C. Leonard (Shieta), Kenon Leonard, Peyton N. Staff (Rob) and a host of extended family members.