William John Leonard

Bill always stated that he had a happy life augmented by his beloved wife Mary, his children, Donna (David), Audrey, Billy (Ann) and Nancy (Raymond) and his extended family and friends. Pa Bill adored his grandchildren, Tripp (Katie), Krissten (Shawn) and Mary (Paul) and his great-grandchildren, Charlie and Audrey. He was a devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother to his sister Dorothy and a Friend to all he knew.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary and daughter, Audrey “Honey” Leonard.

Born in New York City on June 19 1924, Bill graduated from Manhattan College with a Business Degree. In early 1943, he enlisted in the Army and served in a tank battalion during WWII and returned home in 1946. His Masters Degree was earned from New York University in dual disciplines: Accounting and Marketing. Bill started in public accounting and then into the private sector working in various management positions rising to Vice President/Chief Financial Officer for three major corporations including starting and nurturing 31 companies in 21 countries on five continents. During these times his wife and four children lived in the United States and Europe and travelled extensively.

Married for 71 years, his wife Mary took care of their four children (and Bill). This enabled Bill to concentrate on his corporate functions and its required international travel. He was deeply rooted in his community, coaching little league basketball, football and baseball teams for years, active in religious education, civic and veterans groups, rising to the top leadership position in most of them. In Bill’s dedication to his Catholic Religion, he was Co-Chairman of a Parish Church Building Fund Drive and an usher at Mass for 44 years.

Bill led a busy and happy life. His eternal hope was that when he is remembered, a smile will accompany the recollection.

A private service will be held to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Durham, on behalf of Bill Leonard.

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