In Memoriam: Spencer Leak Jr.
It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our brother and longtime member, Spencer Leak Jr., Vice President of Leak & Sons Funeral Homes, at the age of 56. Spencer was a cornerstone of both this organization and the broader Chicagoland community, a man who devoted his entire life to serving others during their most vulnerable moments.
He began working at Leak & Sons at age 12, answering phones, and was driving limousines for grieving families the day after he received his driver's license. That devotion never wavered. Over nine decades, the Leak family built a business rooted in compassion and dignity, serving countless Chicago families as well as well-known figures including Bernie Mac, Thomas Dorsey, Sam Cooke, and Rev. Jesse Jackson. Spencer carried that legacy forward with grace, while also ensuring that service extended beyond the funeral home by helping families with rent, food, clothing, and reducing costs for those who could not afford them. He was a man who understood that service does not end at loss.
The Chicago community is deeply saddened, and so are we.
Spencer Leak Jr. — Member Profile
Member Since: 2010
Committee & Leadership Service: Spencer served on four committees over the course of his membership: Membership Engagement, Corporate Development, and Mentoring. He also served as Chairman of the Annual Awards Benefit Gala Committee.
His Contributions to Our Chapter
Spencer Leak Jr. was a dedicated and impactful member of the 100 Black Men of Chicago whose commitment went far beyond attendance. He was an engaged leader, a trusted advisor, a passionate mentor, and a tireless advocate for the young people and families we serve.
On the Membership Engagement Committee, Spencer worked to strengthen the brotherhood of the organization. He welcomed new members, encouraged participation, and helped foster a culture of service, accountability, and fellowship, understanding that a strong chapter begins with engaged members.
As a member of the Corporate Development Committee, Spencer leveraged his professional relationships and respected standing in the business community to cultivate corporate partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, often serving as a trusted ambassador for the chapter among business leaders and philanthropic partners.
Spencer's work on the Mentoring Committee reflected our motto, "What They See Is What They'll Be®" — he took a genuine interest in the lives of young men, offering guidance and demonstrating the values of leadership, professionalism, and integrity through everyday actions. His calm demeanor and practical wisdom made him a valued role model to many.
As Chairman of the Annual Awards Benefit Gala Committee, Spencer helped elevate the Gala into a meaningful platform for advancing the chapter's mission. His ability to engage sponsors, recognize community leaders, and execute with excellence helped generate critical resources that expanded our mentoring, education, health, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Beyond any title or committee assignment, Spencer showed up for youth programs, mentoring events, scholarship activities, fundraisers, and community functions across the city. He was a steady presence whose actions always reflected his commitment to service. His legacy is measured not by the positions he held, but by the lives he touched and the example he set.
A Word from Our Chairman
David Day, Chairman of the Board of Directors, 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc.
"The 100 Black Men of Chicago mourns the passing of our beloved brother and longtime member, Spencer Leak Jr. Spencer embodied the very principles upon which our organization was founded: leadership, service, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. His wisdom, generosity, and dedication to our mission touched countless lives and strengthened our chapter immeasurably. Beyond his many accomplishments, Spencer was a trusted friend, mentor, and source of comfort to so many, always willing to step forward and say, 'I Got This,' when help was needed most. His legacy will live on through the lives he impacted, the community he served, and the example he set for future generations. On behalf of the Board of Directors and the entire membership of the 100 Black Men of Chicago, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. We are grateful for his life, his friendship, and his extraordinary service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered."
A Word from our Founder
John S. Kendall, Esq., Founding Chairman, 100 Black Men of Chicago, Inc.
“Beyond our relationship within the 100, Spencer was warm and welcoming whenever our paths crossed. One of the characteristics I respected most, and that separated Spencer from others, is that he didn’t volunteer or lead for recognition, he genuinely wanted to make a positive difference within the community. We are eternally grateful for Spencer’s impact on our lives and I offer my sincere condolences to Donna and the Leak Family as well as all those who loved him.
We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Mrs. Donna Leak, his father Spencer Leak Sr., his mother Henrietta, his brothers Stacy and Stephen, and the entire Leak family.”
Spencer Leak Jr. gave his life in service to others. May he rest in eternal peace.
In Brotherhood,
100 Black Men of Chicago
