The Powerful Story of Leak and Sons Funeral Home in Chicago
For over 90 years, Leak and Sons Funeral Homes has been supporting Chicagoland families during their times of loss. But beyond their funeral services, they remain deeply committed to giving back to the community in ways that many people may not realize.
A 91-year Legacy
The backstory:
It all started in 1933. My grandmother, Dottie Leak, loaned my grandfather, A.R. Leak, $500. He matched that with $500 that he earned at the Chicago World’s Fair and with that opened up Unity Funeral Home. Leak Jr. shared that his grandfather later parted ways with Unity and established his own funeral home at 44th and State.
Leak Jr. manages both the days and, often, the nights. The funeral home operates 24 hours a day, every day, year after year. "That just makes me feel so good that we are so well respected in the community because of that Leak name," said Leak Jr.
Community Impact
That service and legacy extend far beyond these walls. "Whether its paying for rent or giving clothes, giving food. We give money every year for Christmas, reducing the cost of funerals," said Leak Jr.
A.R. Leak even put his name on church mortgages to help keep them open, and Leak Sr. continues to support those in need to this day. "My first memories even as a child, I’d be out with my dad and people would just come up to him thanking him and being grateful for him. I never understood that until I got a little older," said Stacy.
A Close-knit Family
That history is reflected on the walls of their three locations—Chicago, Country Club Hills, and Matteson. But what you don’t see is the love the Leaks put into their work—and into each other.
"You hear about families who fight. We do not fight. We are a close-knit family. My dad, my brothers. My cousin who’s not here, Leon," said Leak Jr.
The Next Generation
For over 90 years, Leak & Sons has been dedicated to serving Chicago families—now with the next generation leading the way. "My son is A.R. Leak as well, so he’s stuck with it. So that’s one of my sons and the other one is Carter Spencer, so unfortunately their path is chosen for them already," said Stacy Leak.
Conclusion
Leak and Sons Funeral Home is a testament to the power of family, dedication, and community. For 91 years, they have been serving and giving back to the community, and it is clear that this legacy will continue for generations to come.
FAQs
How long has Leak and Sons Funeral Home been in operation?
Leak and Sons Funeral Home has been in operation for over 90 years.What is the backstory of Leak and Sons Funeral Home?
Leak and Sons Funeral Home was founded in 1933 by A.R. Leak and Dottie Leak.How does Leak and Sons Funeral Home give back to the community?
Leak and Sons Funeral Home gives back to the community through various means, including paying for rent, giving clothes, giving food, and reducing the cost of funerals.- What is the next step for Leak and Sons Funeral Home?
The next generation of the Leak family is currently in college, and it is unclear who will join their dad and grandparents in the family business.
