Jody L. Axley

Jody Lynne Axley (Leonard), 58, of Rockland, Michigan passed away on April 11, 2025, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, after a sudden illness onset. Jody peacefully passed away surrounded by family.

Jody was born in Mt. Clemens, Michigan on December 23, 1966, to Donald Leonard of Washington, Michigan and Julie Gagnon (Wonsey) of Romeo, Michigan. Jody's mom went on to remarry Edward Gagnon and was raised with a blended family in Rockland, Michigan. Jody graduated from Ontonagon Area Jr/Sr High School in 1985 and continued schooling to receive her Associates in Business Management from Davenport University. Jody further got her Cosmetology License from Gogebic Community College in 2013.

Jody worked as the General Manager at the AmericInn Hotel in Silver City, Michigan. She excelled in every position she was put in and was a natural leader. Jody was known for her beautiful smile, sense of humor, her acts of kindness, and her contagious laugh. She always knew when somebody needed an encouraging word and was a giver to everyone. She was known for her love of the outdoors, genealogy, and the beautiful sunsets over Lake Superior when she was out fishing with her family. Jody always talked about the fish that got away and the stories were endless!

Jody is survived by her two children, Tony Roberts and Amy Axley. Jody is also survived by her mother, Julie Gagnon; two sisters, Carolyn Leonard (Denise Penegor) and Jacqueline (Rick) Niemi; step-brothers, William Gagnon and Richard (Pamela) Gagnon; and by her long time partner and husband, Robert Axley (Matthew & Hannah).

Jody was preceded in death by her father, Donald Leonard; step-father, Edward Gagnon; step-brother, Ronald Gagnon; and both paternal and maternal grandparents.

Jody will be remembered with a celebration of life on June 7, 2025, at the Rockland Town Hall from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Jody wanted to be cremated and have her ashes spread in the Ontonagon River by her children.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, if anyone would like to donate anything to assist with Jody's final expenses, donations may be made to her kids: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=CR9F2ZGSC36C8&no_recurring=1&item_name=To+assist+in+final+expenses+for+my+mother.¤cy_code=USD

Brainard Funeral Home- Wausau Chapel is assisting our family.