Leonard B. Needham

Leonard Bert Needham, Sr., of Winter Haven, passed away at his home Thursday, May 3, 2007 from respiratory failure. He was 74. Born on August 30, 1932 in Roda, Virginia, Mr. Needham came to Florida in 1957. Mr Needham owned and operated Eagle Lake Transmission Service for over 20 years. He was also a Boy Scout Leader for Troops #506 and #120. Mr. Needham also loved playing and producing both country and blue grass music. He was a member of the Church of The Nazarene, Bartow, His family and children meant the world to him. Mr. Needham is preceded in death by wife of 20 years, Latrelle Needham. He leaves behind his former wife of 27 years and mother of his six children, Betty Joiner of Winter Haven. He is also survived by two sons; Bert Needham, Jr. of Winter Haven and Dennis Needham of Troy, AL; four daughters, Teresa Needham of Eagle Lake, Wanda Johnson of Bartow, Amanda Needham of Winter Haven and Joanna Smith also of Winter Haven, a brother; Sam Needham of Andover, VA, two sisters; Barbara Couch of Orlando and Betsy Miller of Winter Haven. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. Arrangements are being handled by Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, 650 East main Street Bartow where family will receive friends from 6 PM to 8 PM Sunday May 6, 2007. Services for Mr. Needham will follow Monday, May 7, 2007 at 2:00 PM at the funeral home chapel.