Leonardo Guillermo Garcia

Leonardo (Leo) Guillermo Garcia, 60, of Northern Virginia, passed away on April 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion to his family, his faith, and his community. Born on February 10th, 1965 in Havana, Cuba, to Leonardo and Angela Garcia, Leo was the youngest of two children, and leaves behind his older sister, Caridad Rodriguez. At the age of two, Leo and his family immigrated to the United States, settling in Northern Virginia, where he would build a life defined by loyalty, humor, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Leo attended Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic School, Bishop O’Connell Catholic High School, and graduated from Oakton High School in 1983. His desire to serve led him to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice at Northern Virginia Community College, setting the stage for his 30-year career in law enforcement. Leo’s professional journey began on August 12, 1990, with the Arlington County Police Department. Leo’s dedication to public service was evident in every aspect of his career—from responding to the 9/11 Pentagon attacks to earning three Life Saving Awards. He also served as an instructor at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy, where he mentored future generations of officers. After retiring as a Corporal in 2020, Leo continued to serve his community through his work with the Prince William County Sheriff’s Department as a Deputy Sheriff; a position he held until his passing. But it was his faith, family, and community that truly defined Leo. A devout Catholic, Leo was an active and engaged parishioner at All Saints Catholic Church since 1992. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and a dedicated participant in the church’s Hispanic Ministries. He also served as a Eucharistic Minister of Holy Communion and Usher, faithfully supporting his church with humility and dedication. On September 5th, 1992, Leo married his beloved Zonia Elizabeth Leon-Garcia at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Their love story spanned 33 years, marked by laughter, mutual respect, and an unshakable bond. To Zonia, Leo was not just a husband, but her best friend, confidant, and protector. Their relationship was rooted in faith, shared passions, an undying devotion to their children, their family, their many friends, and the community. Leo often bragged about his wife’s strength and kindness, and he took great joy in their shared adventures, including their pilgrimages to the Holy Land and Rome. Leo is survived by his wife, Zonia; their three children, Andres, Victoria Garcia-Nicoud (and her husband, William Nicoud), and Miguel; and his cherished grandson. Leo’s family meant everything to him. Whether it was on vacations to Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, or Aruba, smoking the Thanksgiving turkey, or simply enjoying a quiet evening together over a bottle of good wine with his beloved wife, Leo was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. He was never able to resist sharing a sweet treat or word of wisdom with his children and would make great efforts to see them smile. He was the family car connoisseur, a die hard-Patriots fan, and movie expertwho somehow knew a little bit about everything. Leo’s humor was infectious, and his loud laugh and quick jokes brought light and joy to any room. Whether talking about his family history or honoring his parents, Leo was proud of where he came from and the legacy he was building with the family who he loved so deeply. A visitation will be held at Pierce Funeral Home on May 6th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on May 7th at 11:00 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Catholic Charities in Leo’s memory. Isaiah 55:8-9: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways- oracle of the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Leonardo Guillermo Garcia

February 10, 1965 - April 23, 2025