Leodon Lewis Killinger

CHANGE IN SERVICE LOCATION *** DUE TO THE STORM - THE LOCATION OF LEO'S SERVICE ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 13 HAS BEEN CHANGED. LEO'S FUNERAL WILL NOW BE HELD AT THE CONROY-TULLY WALKER SOUTH PORTLAND CHAPEL, 1024 BROADWAY, SOUTH PORTLAND, NOT FOREST CITY CEMETERY** A Life Lived with Enthusiasm, Laughter, and Love PORTLAND & THE VILLAGES, FL - Leodon L. "Leo" Killinger, 73, known affectionately as the unofficial "Mayor" of The Villages in Florida, passed away on December 24, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family in the Sunshine State. Born on Sept. 13, 1950 in York, and raised on the spirited streets of Munjoy Hill, Leo was a force of nature right from the start. A graduate of Portland High School's Class of '68, Leo was a legend in his own right. As a young daredevil, he braved the frozen Casco Bay to Fort Gorges—only to find himself years later in a nautical misadventure with his kids, where Captain Morgan became his unlikely co-pilot. If there's one thing Leo taught us, it's that adventures, whether on ice or sea, are best enjoyed with a dash of humor and a life jacket. Following high school and with a love of being on the water, Leo honorably served his country in the United States Coast Guard. Leo married the love of his life, Mary "Tish" (Murphy) Killinger on September 20, 1980 in Cumberland. With a love for the open waters and animals, Leo was the only man known to have tamed a wild duck—truly an animal whisperer at heart. Weekends at Casco Bay and Sebago Lake with his family were moments he cherished most, proving that his heart was as vast as the waters he loved. In his earlier years, Leo wore many hats—quite literally and figuratively. From the construction sites where he built homes and Marriott Hotels nationwide to the flower shops where his floral arrangements were the talk of the town, Leo's talents knew no bounds. A brief stint at a local Funeral Home during his high school days only added to his eclectic resume. His zest for life took him to places far and wide, from assisting FEMA in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina to building dreams with Sheraton Construction in the Villages. Yet, his favorite role was always that of a father and grandfather, where he was the hero of his own story and the heart of his family. Leo's move to the Villages in 2005 was nothing short of legendary. Embracing the town squares, golf carts, and live music, he quickly became the heartbeat of his community—a title he wore with pride and a touch of mischief. His sociable nature, infectious laughter, and genuine respect for others left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a life lived to the fullest. While his stories may have ended, the memories of his antics, his love for family, and his unwavering spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. As we bid farewell to our beloved Leo, let us remember him not with tears but with laughter, for he lived his life as a grand adventure—a tale of a man who was always full of hell and heart. Leo is predeceased by his grandparents; parents; son, Jason Killinger; sister, Virginia “Ginny” Lawless. He is survived by his wife, Tish Killinger of the Villages and Portland; children, Donny Killinger of Portland; Bobby Killinger of Portland; Katie Topps and husband Andrew of Arizona; Nick Killinger and wife Jen of Kennebunk; grandchildren, Norah, John, Aria; sister, Rosetta Wyman, Denise Lowell; brother in law, Dale Lawless. Visiting Hours celebrating Leo's remarkable life will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024 from 4-6PM at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 13 at 10AM at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Interment will follow at Forest City Cemetery, Lincoln Street, South Portland. To view Leo's memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com. Rest easy, Leo. Until we meet again, may you have fair wind and following seas, keep the Captain Morgan ready. Cheers to a life well-lived! Due to a family allergy, please do not send floral arrangements which include roses. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Joshua House for Golden Retriever Rescue in Lecanto, FL by visiting https://www.jhgrr-fl.com/donate.