Col. Leonard Magnus McNutt, USA, ret., of Fernandina Beach, FL passed away on Thursday afternoon, January 26, 2017, at the age 103.

Born on December 25, 1913 in Throckmorton, TX, Col. McNutt enjoyed a career as a teacher, principal, 30 years as an officer in the US Army, Chief of Police and then Sheriff of Dade County, FL. He was a graduate of Stamford High School, Stamford, TX, Class of 1932, where he was voted Best All-around Senior by his peers. He attended Hardin-Simmons College, John Tarlton A&M, and the University of Miami.

He was a member of the Reserve Officers Association, The Retired Officers Association, Association of the US Army and a lifetime honorary member of the Police Benevolent Association/Fraternal Order of Police, and the Army-Navy Club of Coral Gables, FL.

He was a member of the National Guard until his call to active duty in 1940. Col. McNutt was also a Boy Scout leader in Texas for 12 years and was the official announcer for the West Texas Cowboy Reunion rodeo for 8 years.

He and his wife of 57 years, the former Mary Pauline Waggoner, who preceded him in death, traveled to all 50 states as well as 40 countries. Col. McNutt and his wife divided their time between their homes in Welaka, FL and the Ozark Mountains.

Survivors include two daughters, Mary Lynn Torchia of Fernandina Beach and Sandra Sue McNutt of Gainesville, son-in-law, A.G. Torchia, three grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 5:00 pm on Tuesday in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley Heard with the Reverend Rector Stephen Mazingo, officiating.

His family will receive friends on Tuesday, at the funeral home, from 4:00 pm until the hour of service.

Graveside services will follow at 1:30 pm on Wednesday as he is laid to rest with his wife at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.