Reverend Leonard J Field

Leonard Field was born on March 29, 1953, in Somerville, New Jersey, to Lenora Field, a well-known gospel singer throughout the local community. Blessed with his mother's musical talent, Leonard began singing at the young age of six during the early 1960s, when gospel music was flourishing. His love for music led him to Deacon Tanner's Prayer Band a traveling gospel group based out of Newark, New Jersey, where he continued to develop his gift. 

It was through the church, that Lenora met and married Reverend John Graham, and the family relocated to Newark. While his parents toured, singing and spreading the gospel, Leonard remained in Somerville during the school week with his loving grandparents, John and Elizabeth Field, and a large, supportive extended family. He attended Somerville Public Schools while enjoying the stability and encouragement of his grandparents' home. He spent most weekends in Newark with his parents, where the city's vibrant gospel community helped him refine his singing and nurture his growing passion for preaching. 

Leonard was an outstanding athlete. He played football and basketball. However, he excelled at baseball. He had a lifelong love for the New York Mets. As a talented baseball player at Somerville High School, he dreamed of becoming a catcher. That dream was nearly taken away in 1968 when a tragic baseball accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. Through determination, faith, and what many considered a miracle, Leonard regained the ability to walk and went on to live a full and active life. 

His sense of style emerged early. While still in high school, Leonard worked in the men's department at Gaston Avenue Department Store, where he developed an appreciation for fashion that remained with him throughout his life. 

Under the leadership of Reverend E. Philson, Leonard's family became one of the founding families of Waverley Park Temple, located in Newark, New Jersey. Leonard played an instrumental role in organizing the church choir alongside Joy, who served as the pianist. Together they built a choir that became highly sought after throughout the area. Leonard's powerful rendition of his signature song, "How Great Thou Art," became a favorite wherever the choir ministered. 

While still in their teenage years, Leonard and Joy were married. Their union was blessed with two children, Jennifer Lynn and Leonard Jr. Although their marriage ended in the early 1980s, they remained on good terms and continued to share mutual respect. Leonard later met and courted Mary Lou Bogan; this relationship birthed his third child, Tiffany D. Field. While Leonard and Mary Lou decided to split, they too maintained mutual respect. 

Professionally, Leonard dedicated many years as a chemical compounder for GJ Chemicals (Pennix) in Newark, New Jersey, where he was known as a hardworking and dependable employee. Later in life Leonard was employed by Jarchem Industries ( Jarchem Innovative Ingredients) in Newark, New Jersey. 

Leonard was called into the Ministry of the Gospel at Greater Little Rock Missionary Baptist Church Newark, New Jersey, where he was licensed and ordained to preach. He moved on and served as the Minister of Music at Eternal Life in Somerset, New Jersey. Finally, Leonard’s church home would become New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church in Somerville, New Jersey. There he was ordained by Pastor David E. Rouse Sr. Rev. Leonard Field served as an assistant to Pastor Rouse, taught Bible Study, and lead prayer meeting. 

On March 5, 2020, Rev. Leonard Field underwent surgery on his spine which regretfully left him paraplegic. Blessedly, he continued ministry over the phone, in his home, from his hospital bed, and supported outreach work financially.  

Above all, Leonard will be remembered as a man of unwavering faith, remarkable resilience, musical talent, and deep love for his family. His life touched countless people through his ministry, his music, and his example of perseverance in the face of adversity. 

Rev. Leonard J. Fields was predeceased by his mother, Lenora Field and leaves behind to cherish his children; Jennifer L. Edwards (Rohan), Leonard J. Field Jr., Tiffany L. Field, grandchildren; Elijah M. Edwards, Joy Edwards, Lennox Field, Keiara Field, as well as his loved care-giving companion Arleen Wilson and a host of cousins and friends. 

Thank You to all of whom have prayed and supported through this difficult time.  

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