Leroy Smith Baldwin

Leroy moved to Brooklyn, NY, at the age of five with his mother, Mary Baldwin, his stepfather, Eddie Baldwin, and his sister, Dorothy Summers. He attended New York City public schools in Brooklyn and later Food Trades High School, where he studied Culinary Arts. He graduated as valedictorian of his high school and was known for being a very studious individual.

At just 20 years old, Leroy became a Minister at St. Mary’s Pentecostal Church in Brooklyn, NY. He was often called “Prophet Baldwin” because of his spiritual discernment and his ability to perceive things that others could not. He ministered at many churches throughout New York and formed a gospel group called “The Gospel Soul Savers,” for which his dear sister, Dorothy Summers, served as the lead singer.

Leroy graduated from New York University with a Bachelor’s in Education and a Master’s in Urban Education. He also minored in Hotel Management at New York College, which became one of the catalysts for his career in the culinary arts.

Leroy met his lovely wife, Denise, in 1970, and they married in 1982. They enjoyed traveling and dining out together. Leroy introduced Denise to the wide world of restaurants and culinary arts. They shared a wonderful marriage of 43 years, and his wife Denise will miss him dearly.

Leroy wore many hats throughout his life. He was an educator, business owner, trainer, and mentor—all roles he embraced wholeheartedly. He owned a host of businesses, including an oil company, restaurants, bakeries, and parking lots. His business expertise and talents were vast. A dynamic force in the hospitality industry, Leroy was the former owner of Silvercrest Bakery in Newark, NJ. His decades-long career reflected a deep passion for food service and education. As an experienced restaurateur and food service professional, he brought creativity and dedication to every venture he pursued. Beyond entrepreneurship, Leroy was a seasoned educator who made lasting contributions as a curriculum developer and food services trainer. He generously shared his knowledge, mentoring countless individuals across all areas of hospitality management. His influence stretched from classrooms to kitchens, where his leadership left an enduring legacy.

Leroy met many friends throughout his life and career. His legacy lives on through the many professionals he guided and inspired. He was a man of profound character who would do anything to help his family. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.

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Leroy is preceded in passing by his parents; two brothers, Otis and Ronald McFadgion; and his sister, Linda Breedan.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Denise Baldwin; his son, Anthony Baldwin (Dana); grandchildren Corey Baldwin (Nina), Anthony Baldwin, and Violet Baldwin; and great-grandchild Elliot Baldwin. He is also cherished by his sister Dorothy Jean Summers (Harold); sisters-in-law Brenda McFadgion, Karen Lassiter, and Barbara Hawkins; his brother-in-law David Lassiter (Charlene); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and close friends.