Margaret Delores

McMichael Leonhardt

Margaret Delores McMichael Leonhardt, age 94, of Texas City, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2026, following a brief stay at Mainland Center Hospital.

Margaret was born on January 27, 1932, in War, West Virginia, to Ansel and Adeline Rose Ploss. She was raised in West Virginia and graduated from Big Creek High School in War. She continued her education at Jefferson School of Commerce, preparing for a life of dedicated work and service to others.

In 1951, Margaret married Bill C. McMichael. Soon after, they relocated to Texas City, Texas, when Bill accepted a position as an operator with Union Carbide. Together they built a loving home and raised two children: Cathy Ann McMichael Wray and Bill Stephen (Bubba) McMichael. They experienced the heartbreaking loss of their infant child Mark D. McMichael who passed away shortly after birth in 1961.

During her children's early years, Margaret faithfully raised her family while attending Glad Tidings Assembly of God in Texas City. Her Christian faith was an important part of her life, and she held a strong belief in Jesus Christ throughout her years."

Margaret enjoyed a strong work ethic throughout her life. She was employed as a bookkeeper for Gene Hamon Ford and later worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Weatherall. She was known for her kindness, dependability, and dedication to both her family and her profession.

After the passing of her first husband, Margaret found love again and married Leroy Leonhardt. They shared many happy years together.

One of Margaret's greatest joys was spending time with her family. She especially cherished the opportunities to reunite with her siblings during family reunion trips across the country. Her love for family, her resilience, and her caring spirit touched all who knew her.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Ansel and Adeline Ploss; her first husband, Bill C. McMichael; her second husband, Leroy Leonhardt; her daughter, Cathy McMichael Wray; her sons, Bill S. McMichael and Mark D. McMichael; her brother, Charles Ploss; her sister, Doris Ploss Morehead and her sister-in-law Margaret Ploss.

She is survived by her brother, Jack Ploss; her sister, Hazel Hicks; her son-in-law, Claude Wray & wife Sherry; her grandchildren, Tonya Elliott & husband Tommy, Shawn Wray & wife Meredith, and Jason Wray & wife Ashley; her great-grandchildren, Kara Hooker, Cameron O'Donnell, Hannah O'Donnell, Macie Wray, Jackson Wray, Carter Wray, Westin Wray, and Eastin Wray, her great-great-grandchildren Rylie Richards, Bowen Still, and Grady Still, along with numerous extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Pallbearers are Shawn Wray, Jason Wray, Cameron O’Donnell, Pryce Still, Jackson Wray, Carter Wray.

Family and friends are invited to attend her visitation on Friday, November 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Emken-Linton Funeral Home in Texas City. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Bishop Herrin officiating. Burial will follow at Galveston Memorial Park.

The family wishes to express its appreciation to the staff of Bayou Pines Care Center for the care provided to Margaret during her many years of residence. We are thankful for the many dedicated individuals who assisted her and showed her kindness along her journey.

Margaret's life was a testament to faith, perseverance, hard work, and devotion to family. Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."