Arthur Jean Leeper, lovingly known as Art, died peacefully at his home in Pansy, Arkansas on Thursday, February 20, 2025 after an extended illness.
He was born on March 9, 1956, at Camp Hanford Army Hospital in Camp Hanford, WA, to Jean Royce Leeper and Thelma Aileen Clausen Leeper. He spent his early years in Spokane, WA, before moving with his family to Anchorage, AK, at the age of 11. Art was heavily involved in Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Life Scout and belonging to the Order of the Arrow, an honor society in scouting. He also served as a camp counselor, reflecting his early commitment to leadership and service.
In the summer of 1972, Art moved to Federal Way, WA, where he attended Decatur High School, graduating in 1974. An accomplished athlete, he lettered in wrestling and cross-country.
In 1975, Art began his distinguished military career by joining the United States Marine Corps. He attended boot camp in San Diego, CA, where he served as the platoon guide and honor man, earning a dress blue uniform and a meritorious promotion. He continued his training as a mortarman at Camp Pendleton, CA, and excelled in the Marines, rapidly advancing to the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Selected for an officer program, Art attended the University of Washington, graduating in 1982 with a degree in Criminal Justice. That summer, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. He served as an infantry platoon commander, company executive officer, and company commander before transitioning to the intelligence field. Art became the first intelligence officer in the newly formed 1st Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) Battalion in 1985 at Camp Pendleton, CA. His career continued as an intelligence analyst with the Defense Intelligence Agency, stationed at The Pentagon supporting U.S. Special Forces in South Korea. Art retired from the Marine Corps in 1995 with the rank of Captain, marking 20 years of dedicated service to his country.
Following his military career, Art found his second calling in law enforcement. He served as a deputy in the Fairfax County VA Sheriff’s Office before joining the Warrenton Police Department in VA, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant. During his tenure, he attended the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, and received several awards, including recognition for his involvement in Anti-DWI efforts. He also earned a master’s degree in Homeland Security. Art retired from law enforcement in 2018, having dedicated approximately 20 years to protecting and serving his community.
In his later years, Art found peace and belonging in Southeast Arkansas at Tall Pines Farm, where he shared his days with his faithful German Shepherd, Harper. He also found a spiritual home at Rison Church of Christ.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, Jean and Thelma Leeper; his older brother, Kenneth; and granddaughter, Noelle Faye. He leaves behind a legacy of love with his children: Jennifer Leeper, Clinton Leeper (and his wife, Michelle), Simone Vann (and her husband, Jason), and Alisa Kliuchyk. He is also survived by his younger brother, Brian Leeper (and his wife, Carolyn), as well as his best friend, Paula Thomasson, and her daughter, Meredith, who were a beloved part of his life.
Art was a proud grandfather to five granddaughters- MaraFaye, Dacia, Marley, Bailey, and Camryn; and a grandson, Grayson.
A celebration of life will be held at Rison Church of Christ on March 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Art will be laid to rest at Quantico National Cemetery later in the Spring, a fitting tribute to his legacy of service.
Arrangements are by Fuller Hale-South Funeral Services of Pine Bluff.
Art’s unwavering dedication to his country, community, and loved ones will never be forgotten. He will be remembered for his generous heart, quiet wisdom, and kind, gentle spirit.
For online condolences, please visit RobinsonFuller.com