Kathryn Louise Leis

October 25, 1946 – October 1, 2025

On a crisp fall day in her beloved state of Maine, Kathryn “Kathy” Leis left this world, surrounded by her family.

To many who knew her, she was Mama Leis: the life of the party, the one who remembered every birthday and anniversary, and the woman who never hesitated to share a strong opinion.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, she spent much of her adolescence as a student of the world—living abroad in places like Panama and Japan—moving from base to base with her family as a certified “Air Force brat.” After graduating from high school in Japan (where her father was stationed at the time), she returned to the States to attend Annhurst College. After graduating, she met a dashing young law student, Donald, who would become her husband for more than 53 years.

Kathy’s passion for education eventually led her to pursue teaching. While she taught in a variety of places throughout her life—including a prison, where she famously learned judo—she spent more than 30 years sharing her love of the Spanish language at Avon Old Farms School, where she taught until retirement. In between, she ran the Leis household as a wife and mother whose humor, fiery spirit, driving skills, and tough love shaped the lives of her three children—Meghan, Andy, and Sarah—and everyone else who knew her.

Kathy and Don raised their family in Suffield, Connecticut, but moved full-time to beautiful Westport Island, Maine (affectionately known as “The Magical Forest”) five years ago, where Kathy lived until her passing.

Kathy is survived by her husband, Donald George Leis, Jr.; daughter Meghan Jones, her husband Jacob, and children Barrett, Declan, Harper, and Caroline; son Andrew Leis and his partner, Tiffany; daughter Sarah DiBari, her husband Michael, and their child, Madeline; her younger brother, Dale Taysom, his wife Debbie, and children Brett and Scott; and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Mary, who—along with many dear ones and her beloved pets—surely welcomed her home with open arms.

Her family finds comfort in imagining her spirit resting peacefully with God—unless she bumps into her Uncle Ernie up there. Then the heavens will surely shake if they get into one of their famous political debates.

If you’d like to honor Kathy, please reach out to a local shelter near you and donate to help animals in need. She would be so pleased to know that part of her legacy might result in saving the lives of creatures that brought her so much joy and comfort.

Mama Leis will be remembered forever for her laughter, her love, and her unforgettable presence. Though we miss her beyond words, we will carry her in our hearts forever.

Please visit www.jonesrichandbarnes.com to leave condolences for the Leis family and share a memory of Kathy.