Lawrence "L.J." James Leiby III went to be in the arms of Jesus Friday, December 9, 2022, at the age of 12. L.J. was the son of Larry & Emily Leiby of Quinter, KS and Summer (Byington) Leiby of Oberlin, KS. He was an older brother to Philip, Abigail, Norah, and Tucker. He is survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and friends. He is preceded in death by his Grandpa Larry Leiby I.

L.J. enjoyed all things outdoors—fishing, hunting, driving tractor, and caring for his sheep. He had plans to restore his 40's Farmall M to its glory and then driving it around and showing it off. He enjoyed playing baseball and football, watching football, and listening to Johnny Cash. He was a 7 ^th grader at Quinter Jr/Sr High School who looked forward to band each day. He truly enjoyed playing his tuba and practiced any chance he got. He had a sharp mind and could rattle off facts on just about anything and he never forgot them! He also enjoyed reading and playing Monopoly and Minecraft.  He was a member of Club 3:16 at the Gove Community Bible Church and would share the love of Jesus with his friends and invite them along. L.J. was gifted with the ability to make a friend with anyone he met. On Saturday mornings he would try to wake up earlier than the rest of his family and make pancakes for breakfast. L.J. cared deeply for those he loved and will be deeply missed.

While his time here on Earth was short, he got to travel to many places including the Black Hills, Michigan, and the Rocky Mountains which were his favorite to talk about.  He would tell anyone who would listen to his fishing stories and that he had the chance to fish in the Mississippi River. Many times, he asked to skip school on a good fishing day.

His funeral will be Wednesday, December 14 at 10:30 AM at Gove Community Bible Church in Gove KS; Pastor Chris Thomas will be officiating. Livestreaming will be available in the morning. The link will be on the Gove Community Bible Church's Facebook page. There will also be a gathering at 5:30 for Club 3:16 members to share a meal and remember L.J. The family will again be at the church at 7 PM for a come-and-go Celebration of Life for those who cannot come Wednesday morning and for those who would like to share memories of L.J. Casual wear is asked as L.J. was a jeans and t-shirt kinda guy and did not like to dress up.  If you have a fishing, Kansas City Chiefs or Bulldog shirt wear it!

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Quinter Jr/Sr High School Library and Band. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 Main St Quinter KS 67752.

Condolences may be left for the family by signing the guestbook on this page.