Life History of Leon Frank Boren
Written By Myrle J. Boren
Leon Frank Boren was born February 16th, 1948 to LaMar and Myrle Johnson Boren. He was the fourth child of ten.
Leon was giving and generous as a child and throughout his life. When he was two (2) years old, his younger brother, Bill, was born. Leon was thrilled to have a new baby brother. As people brought gifts for the new baby, Leon became aware that he had nothing for little Billy. He asked his mother and dad to take him to town and there he bought a small rattle to give to the baby.
Leon was a very creative and talented person. At age five (5), he composed a short piece on the piano. He loved to perform this piece to anyone and everyone who would listen. This was remarkable since he never took piano lessons but taught himself to play the piano by ear. Throughout his life, he enjoyed all varieties of music.
He also began drawing at an early age. A favorite aunt was impressed by his artistic abilities. She encouraged him by having him draw exotic animals and other items of difficulty. She was always surprised and pleased with his results. He continued his sketching and drawings for many years. In his teens, he painted a landscape of the beautiful view from his families’ home. This painting is still loved and enjoyed by all the family.
His talents and abilities continued to flourish during his teens. In High School, he used his beautiful voice in singing with the A Capella Choir. He used his talent in dance to choreograph a school musical. In addition, he spent many hours teaching his brothers and sisters how to dance and taught classes to many of the youth in the area.
During High School, he resolved to improve his grades. This commitment resulted in his receiving three (3) scholarships at the end of his senior year. He encouraged his brothers and sisters to do their best as well.
Leon believed in his brothers and sisters and helped them to develop positive self-esteems. Many times, he advised his younger sisters with their make-up and hair-styles. He was always ready with advice and suggestions to help others improve.
Leon wanted to be self-sufficient at an early age. He found various jobs and was always dependable and reliable. With the money from his jobs he enjoyed buying gifts for the family.
After school, Leon moved from home. He resided in New York City for nearly twenty (20) years. During this time he owned and operated his own hair-styling business. Many of his clients were top designers and celebrities. He took pride in his work and volunteered many hours to various charitable organizations.
Many of his family visited him while he lived in New York City. He was an impeccable host, taking them to the best restaurants and Broadway shows. He always made sure they saw the best New York City had to offer. He was a perfectionist in his personal life as well. His apartment was always immaculate and he enjoyed creating delicious gourmet meals.
We were all happy when Leon decided to return home in 1989. The family spent many hours together enjoying each other and having fun. In spite of his illness, Leon remained cheerful and optimistic, always concerned with our feelings. He would joke about being “the Prodigal Son” and while at home, he successfully overcame many of his weaknesses.
Leon had a strong testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel. He promised his mother that after his passing, he would do everything in his power to help his family and their families from the other side. We will all miss Leon and feel the void that has left. But we have great comfort knowing he is with his father and nephew, Michael; continuing his progression in the gospel.
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