Leo Givs' Obituary
We gather here today to celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable man, Leo Givs, who ascended to his heavenly home on April 17, 2024. Born on January 8, 1961, in Eunice, Louisiana, Leo was a beacon of intelligence, faith, and selflessness, whose life journey exemplified the very essence of service and excellence.
Leo's early years were rooted in the rich soils of Louisiana, where he was nurtured by his loving parents, the late Dosher Andrus and Wesley Givs Sr. He was the beloved baby brother to Thomas, Wesley Jr., Martha L. Williams, and Leta Bell Waddel, who all preceded him in glory, and to Odell, David, John and Matthew Givs, who continue to walk this earthly path. Leo's life was further blessed when he joined hands in holy matrimony with his devoted wife, Cathie, and embraced the joys of fatherhood with his daughter, Khadijah Martin, son-in-law Christopher, and the recent gift of his grandson, Kairo Elijah Martin.
With a mind as sharp as a tack and a spirit as mighty as a storm, Leo became a formidable presence on the football field and in the classroom at Grambling State University. It was there, under the tutelage of the legendary Coach Eddie Robinson, that Leo shined as a G-Man. His academic prowess was evident as he made the Dean's List and President's List, eventually graduating magna cum laude with a degree in Radio and TV, boasting a 3.5 GPA and the honor of being the highest-ranked graduating football player.
Yet, the gridiron was not the end of his educational quest. Leo's thirst for knowledge propelled him to Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he completed a master's program in mass communication in just two semesters with a 3.9 GPA. His commitment to academics over sports was a testament to his dedication, personal growth and his desire to impact the world positively.
Brother Leo's professional journey was as impactful as his academic one. He began as a public relations specialist within the District of Columbia government, quickly ascending to the role of acting director of public relations for the DC Department of Corrections at just 26 years of age. It was his call to serve that led him to a distinguished career in nonprofit, touching lives and making a difference in the world; leading him to serve as the Executive Director of The Fishing School, a youth development organization in Washington, D.C.
Leo dedicated over 35 years to senior executive leadership. He was instrumental in raising over $200 million for various causes, serving organizations like Amnesty International, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Washington. His leadership extended to becoming one of the founding members of The Doug Williams Foundation, fostering academic enrichment for the youth in D.C.
Brother Leo was a man of unwavering faith, a guiding light to those in need, and a pillar of strength to his family and community. His intelligence was matched only by his selfless heart, and his legacy will forever be etched in the lives he touched.
Today, we bid farewell to a man who lived a life of purpose and passion, who fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. Leo Givs, a true servant of the Lord, has now joined the heavenly choir. While we mourn his departure from this earthly realm, we rejoice in knowing that he rests in the arms of the Almighty, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and excellence that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Family and friends will unite on Thursday, May 2, 2024 for visitation at 10:00 am until service at 11:00 a.m. at National Church of God, 6701 Bock Rd. Fort Washington, MD 20744. Interment to follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens 3221 Mattawoman-Beantown Rd Waldorf, MD 20601.
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