William Leo Savell Jr.
OCTOBER 16, 1937 – JUNE 19, 2025

Obituary of William Leo Savell Jr.
IN THE CARE OF
Metrocrest Funeral Home & Hilltop Memorial Park
William Leo "Sonny" Savell, Jr. passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, at the age of 87. Known to some as "Sonny" and in later years as Leo. Born on October 16, 1937, Sonny grew up in Carrollton, Texas, and lived a life marked by dedication, diverse interests, and a deep love for his family and friends.
Sonny was the favorite son of Leo and Lucy Savell. He was a beloved brother to four sisters, three of whom, Barbara Lewis, Shirley Nelson, and Judy Barbie, predeceased him. He is survived by his sister, Becky Bray. Sonny graduated from Carrollton High School in 1956, where he excelled in sports, going on to play football for Baylor University during his freshman year. He later earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from North Texas State University. Leo spent time in the U. S. Army where he served at Fort Hood and Fort Polk. He was honorably discharged and went on to voluntarily serve over ten years in the Texas National Guard.
Sonny proudly served with the Dallas Police Department, where he dedicated many years, rising through the ranks to retire as a Captain in 1988. His retirement, however, was merely a new chapter, not an end to his industrious spirit. Demonstrating his adaptable nature and drive, he embarked on a variety of new ventures. For several seasons, he managed the Oleo Ranch in Lake City, Colorado, a place he deeply loved for its great fly fishing, beautiful landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Leo was a fiercely independent man whose hard-working, no-nonsense style made him a favorite confidant, advisor, and friend. His post-retirement pursuits also included working as an insurance agent for Horace Mann, owning a mailbox store, earning his Master's degree in Counseling, and even spending a couple of years driving an 18-wheeler hauling rocks.
Beyond his professional life, Sonny was a man of many passions. He found great joy in spending time at his farm in Canton, Texas, a place he cherished. His creative and practical hobbies included woodworking, reloading ammunition, working on never-ending farm projects, and nature photography. He also loved to explore, embarking on adventures and creating memories while traveling in his RV with his close family and friends.
Sonny's family was central to his life. He married his high school sweetheart, Marianne Courson in 1958, and together they had one child, Gary Dean Savell. On April 29, 1965, he married Mary Langston Savell, and they had two children, Amy Savell Jenkins and Tim Savell. He was a proud grandfather to Jessi Savell, Jake Savell, and Ash Jenkins. He is also survived by his long-time friend, Carolyn Teague.
Services will take place at Metrocrest Funeral Home in Carrollton. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 25 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service and burial will take place on Thursday, June 26 at 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.