Leon Mickens, affectionately known as "Akbar" by his close friends, was born on April 13, 1959, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to the late Isaac Mickens Jr. and Wlille Mae Mickens.

On September 7, 2026, Leon departed this life at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey.

 Leon was preceded in death by his beloved father, as well as several cherished aunts and uncles,

Leon will be remembered for his fun-loving personality, his enjoyment of good company, and the many moments of laughter he shared with family and friends. He enjoyed playing dominoes and cards, spending time with the people he loved, and, of course sitting down to a good home- cooked meal.

Sports were a big Part Leon's life as a teenager, he enjoyed playing baseball for fun,  and his love of sports continued throughout his life. He was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved cheering on the New York Knicks. Leon was also a huge boxing fan and enjoyed watching the sport and following his favorite fighters. 

Those who knew Leon understood how much he valued the excitement, conversation, and friendly debate that came with each game or match.

Leon treasured the people who were part of his life. He shared 30 years of companionship with his beloved partner Belinda Highsmith and was a father to two children and a proud grandfather to five grandchildren.

Leon leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Willie Mae Mickens (Bishopville, SC); his beloved partner of 30 years, Belinda Highsmith (Elizabeth,NJ).

He is also survived by his two children, Akbar Mickens (Zakiyah) (Plymouth, PA):Sheena Gleason (Devon) (Haines City, FL); grandchildren, Diamond Gleason (Haines City, FL); Devon Gleason Jr. (Haines City, FL):; Nashaun Mickens (Plymouth, PA);  Jahron Mickens (Plymouth, PA); Jaheir Mickens (Plymouth, PA).

Leon is further survived by his sister, Ernestine Taylor (DarryI) ( Linden, NJ); his beloved aunt's, Annette Robinson (Linden, NJ); Gladys Parker (Elizabeth, NJ); Daisy Mickens (Bishopville, SC); Jannie Joye (Bishopville, SC); Lois Thomas (Chesapeake VA); and his uncles; Howard Robinson (Elizabeth, NJ); Mason Mickens (Bishopville, SC); Willie Mickens (Linden, NJ).

He also leaves a host of nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Leon's life will be remembered not by titles or accomplishments written on paper, but by the relationships he built, the laughter he shared, the memories he created, and the love of family and friends.