Leland “Lee” / ”Ski” Paul Gantt

     Leland “Lee” / ”Ski” Paul Gantt, age 80, of Thornville, Ohio, died at The Ohio State Medical Center surrounded by his loving family on Monday, April 27, 2026. He was born in Miami, Florida on May 19, 1945, to the late Harold A. and Pauline (Clark) Gantt.

     Lee loved the Lord, reading his Bible, his country, and feeding wildlife on his beloved property, especially Cardinals and Chickadees. He served his church as a Pastor Elder and Sunday School teacher. He also loved his grand-dog Border Collies, Breezy and Spirit. Lee was raised in a house built by his dad and grandpa and on a farm in Marion County, Ohio; he loved being a farm boy and all the farm work. Lee enjoyed watching Buckeye football, working outside and driving his “tractor”/lawnmower. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Business from Dallas Baptist University and was a Business Manager for GTE/Verizon, retiring after 34 years of service.

     He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Nancy (Brewer) Gantt; children, Christopher Paul Gantt, Timothy Paul Gantt, and Amy Paulette (Kevin) Bell; siblings, Barbara Eng and Mark (Jan) Gantt; grandchildren, Lorin and Logan Moore.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Ivan Eng.

     A celebration of life will be held at 11a.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the New Life Baptist Church, 11824 Jacksontown Rd. Thornville, Ohio 43076, with Pastor Elders Terry Carter, Phil Walser, and Pastor Jon Emory officiating.

     In lieu of flowers, contributions in Lee’s memory may be made to New Life Baptist Church (Children's & Youth Ministry).

     A private graveside service at the Marion Cemetery will be held at a date to be determined.