Sharon Weisler Leader

Family and friends of Sharon Weisler Leader are saddened to announce her passing on Friday, November 8 at the age of 73 years. It is often said people courageously fought their disease. Sharon truly engaged in a fight with pancreatic cancer for over a year. It was a fight she knew she could not ultimately win, but she did everything she could to prolong her life and to live fully throughout her remaining time, enjoying her morning walks with her rescue Schnauzer Baxter, having frequent lunches and dinners with her many beloved friends, listening to music, following and strongly opining about politics, and helping many people in whatever ways were needed.

She will be lovingly remembered by her son Josh Burton Arvan, her sister Faye Weisler, her goddaughter Elizabeth Tilton, as well as many loving friends and family members. She was predeceased by her brother, David Weisler; and her parents: Ruth and Dr. Morris Weisler.

Sharon was born and raised in New Orleans and loved her native city. She loved the food, culture, music, character and people of New Orleans. Sharon received her MSW degree after college and was Executive Director of Big Brothers of New Orleans for several years. She remained close friends with a number of people she worked with during that time.

She became a transportation consultant, successfully running her own business for decades. Her work colleagues and friends remember her as a dedicated and innovative professional in the field of mass transit in New Orleans. She was a highly respected voice in the transit industry, leading numerous high-profile transit-related initiatives and projects with vision and expertise. She was known for her innovative and progressive approach to accomplishing project goals and especially important these days, she demonstrated a keen ability to work across political & regional lines.

She joined other smart, politically active women in monthly luncheons, and was tirelessly involved in political causes and campaigns. She loved her many friends and claimed some as her chosen family.

We will honor Sharon’s life and memory on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 1:30pm in the Chapel at Touro Synagogue, 4238 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans.