Joseph Robert LeBlanc

Joseph Robert “J.R.” LeBlanc passed away on Thursday August 21, 2025, at his home in Shalimar, Florida with his wife and two sons by his side. JR was born November 14, 1935, in Beaumont, Texas to Willard and Martha LeBlanc. 

J.R. LeBlanc proudly served 25 years in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1981. J.R.’s career began with the 11th Airborne Division where his units took him to Germany, Vietnam, Korea, and multiple stateside assignments, including the Florida Ranger Camp and Fort Lewis, Washington where he served as First Sergeant and Battalion Command Sergeant Major. His accomplishments included graduating from the Sergeants Major Academy, Airborne, Jumpmaster, Pathfinder, and Ranger schools. J.R. served two tours in Vietnam, first with the 173rd Airborne Brigade and the 75th Rangers Regiment, and later. His final assignments included Senior Advisor to the 5th Army and Command Sergeant Major of the Division Artillery at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

His many awards and decorations include the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with two oak leaf clusters, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with Valor, and an Air Medal with Valor. J.R. was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge in Vietnam, Ranger Tab, Pathfinder Badge, and Master Parachutist Wings. However, of all his decorations, his proudest achievement was marrying the love of his life, Jo Helen on April 19, 1958. 

J.R. lived a full life as a devoted serviceman to the US Army, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend and mentor to many. He dedicated many years to First Baptist Church of FWB as a deacon. J.R. was preceded in death by his parents, brother Percy, and granddaughter, Joleen LeBlanc. J.R. is survived by his wife, Jo Helen, his two sons, Jerry and Ross Sr, and grandchildren, Ross (Brianne), Scarlet (Josh Williams), Garrett, and Marie (Jonathan Stewart). J.R. leaves a legacy of love through his great grandchildren, Alice, Joseph, Malcolm, Ryann, Penelope, Katana, Oaklan, Colton, and Holden. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Twelve Stones Project at First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach, FL.

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