Ray Leon isn’t an average funeral director.
Location Manager of Simplicity Funerals in Beenleigh and Logan City, Mr Leon plays a large part within the community so locals get to know him for his unique role.
“It’s important for people in the community to know me, and understand who they are dealing with, and it’s a pleasure to get to know the people in my community,” Mr Leon said.
Growing up in Tanamera, Mr Leon travelled and lived in different parts of Australia and Europe, before settling in Logan in 1990, marrying in 1993 and watching his two children grow up.
Mr Leon says he spent several years working within another funeral home before taking an opportunity to work within the freight distribution industry. However, Mr Leon felt a pull back to his original work.
“I missed the unique human connection this profession offers a person,” Mr Leon said. “So I was eventually drawn back. I really feel that I was meant to be doing this.”
Through his profession, he assists those during very difficult times, but Mr Leon said he uses his lifelong hobby of music to connect with the community, performing at local aged care facilities and retirement homes.
“I have a passion for music and singing, and it’s something I can give back to the community,” he said.
Mr Leon is also part of the Grumpy Old Men band which plays 70’s and 80’s rock music.
“It changes the perspective of what a funeral director is,” he said. “It’s a wonderful thing to leave people with a smile.”
In his role as Vice President of Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce, Mr Leon also meets lots of community members through local events and meetings.
“I love it here,” he said. “I don’t think people really understand how big the Logan catchment area is, and how diverse and how much culture is within Logan City.
“It’s a fantastic place.”
Ray Leon
