A Light Went Out…

When our beloved Leon David Dayries, Jr. (Lee), age 62, left this world on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Lee was born on August 7, 1962, the first son of the late Leon David Dayries, Sr. and Jo Ellen Kennington Dayries. From a young age, Lee was known for his infectious smile, quick wit, and the ability to turn even the smallest story into an epic saga. He had a natural gift for making friends wherever he went.

A proud graduate of Northwood High School, Class of 1980, Lee went on to Louisiana Tech University, where he earned a business degree and was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. After college, he moved to Los Angeles to work in real estate with his uncle, John Kennington. Inspired by the transformation he saw in the once-forgotten areas of the city, Lee returned to Shreveport with a passion for revitalizing abandoned buildings. He began purchasing historic properties and transforming them into stylish, "chic" loft apartments. His most notable project, the "710 Crockett" lofts, was the restoration of the old Salvation Army building (built in 1929), which became a cornerstone in the revitalization of downtown Shreveport. Lee had an incredible ability to see potential in old spaces, always looking beyond their current state to envision what they could become.

Lee was a true believer in helping others, often lending his expertise to DIY projects long before home renovation shows became popular. His creative sense of design and eye for the unique made his spaces highly desirable and full of character.

Lee treasured all family gatherings and the joy of shared moments, but nothing brought him greater happiness than being with his children. Though Lee had many professional accomplishments, his greatest pride was always his children. He was a loving father to his daughter, Dixie (22), and son, Dalton Cash (21). Lee never passed up an opportunity to play, teach, or simply enjoy time with his children.

Lee is survived by his children, Dixie and Dalton Cash; his one brother Donnie Dayries (Donna); his three sisters Lisa Dayries Womack (Ron), Lyndra Dayries Strickland (Paul), and DeAnn Dayries Dominick (Brad); his stepmother Patsy Dayries; Suzanne Otto, the mother of his children; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends, including Julie Townley Dayries and the Townley family.

The family would like to honor the following individuals as honorary pallbearers, whose friendship and support were cherished by Lee:

Maury Strausman, Mark Renfro, Bo May, Tommy Anderson, Marvin Landingham, Dr. Scott Taylor, Richard Lofton, Blaine Dayries Jr., Josh Dayries, Stan Ratcliff, and Van Wischan.

A memorial service to celebrate Lee's life will be held at Benton Methodist Church in Benton, Louisiana, on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 12:00 PM. A reception and lunch will follow.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Willis Knighton and The Carpenter House Hospice staff for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions or words of support be made to https://gofund.me/a0d761ed to support Lee's beloved children during the difficult days ahead.