CHICAGO (WLS) — In his first one-on-one interview since the sudden death of Spencer Leak Jr. last week, his son is speaking publicly about the life, work and legacy his father leaves behind.
Leak Jr., vice president of Leak and Sons Funeral Homes, was widely known for his compassion and steady presence in moments of grief. Most recently, he oversaw and organized the funeral services for Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.
Those who knew his work say his impact reached far beyond the funeral home. Jesse Jackson Jr. described Leak Jr.’s influence as immeasurable, saying he approached every family with the same care and dignity, regardless of their background or financial means.
Now, Spencer Leak III says he is preparing to carry that legacy forward. In an interview with ABC7 Chicago, he reflected on the example his father set both at work and at home.
“My dad was my super hero. I grew up looking up to my dad,” Leak III said. “I watched him go to work everyday and deal with people in their worst times and come back home the same man that he left. There’s so much going through my head right now. The shoes that I have to fill. I’m ready for it but at the same time, I need my dad.”
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“My dad was my super hero. I grew up looking up to my dad,” Leak III said. “I watched him go to work everyday and deal with people in their worst times and come back home the same man that he left. There’s so much going through my head right now. The shoes that i have to fill. I’m ready for it but at the same time, I need my dad.”
Trying to make sense of the sudden loss of his father, 22-year-old Spencer Leak III is remaining strong for his mom, sister and entire family.
Leak III says his dad didn’t have any known health issues. He was taken to urgent care after becoming ill and came home the next day. But on Sunday, May 31, he passed away at 56 years old.
“It just feels like we’re in a nightmare and I’m waiting to wake up, and then i realize that it is real,” Leak III said. “It’s just, I’m trying to get used to the new normal.”
Leak III had just graduated from college last month. His father was beyond proud of his son’s accomplishments.
A week before his father’s passing, Leak III joined the family business full time. His dad recorded a video of his first day on the job.
“I thank God for you Tre. You’re going to be an excellent, excellent employee,” Leak Jr. said in the video.
“Can’t even look at that video. It’s extremely hard,” Leak III said. “In that video, I am proud to be Spencer Leak III. I am proud to carry the same name as my dad.”
He says his dad was a devoted husband and father. They loved about cars and watching the NBA Finals together.
“He loved each and every person that step foot in either one of our funeral homes,” Leak III said. “My dad looked at you as a part of his family.”
Leak III is now carrying his father’s legacy with pride and strength.
“You prepared me to step into your shoes and to lead this family, and I’m ready for it dad,” Leak III said. “I miss you dad. I love you so much, and I look forward to the next day I see you.”
Spencer Leak Jr.’s cause of death has not yet been determined.
His son says his dad was full of life and loved being around a lot of people. He wants the upcoming services to be less of a funeral and more of a celebration of his life.
A public visitation for Leak Jr. is being held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at the family’s Leak and Sons Funeral Home at 78th and South Cottage Grove in Chicago.
A funeral service will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday at the House of Hope, 752 E. 114th, and it will be livestreamed by ABC7 Chicago. The wake begins at 10 a.m. that morning.
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