Diane Leonard

Diane Elizabeth Leonard, 77, of Avon, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at UConn Hospital following complications from surgery. Born on October 26, 1947, in Buffalo, New York, she was the beloved daughter of the late Robert C. Leonard and Yvonne (Price) Brown, and her husband, the late William Thomas Brown.

Diane graduated from Pompano Beach High School and went on to earn her nursing degree from the Broward County Nursing Program. She spent most of her adult life in Florida before relocating to Connecticut to be closer to her beloved daughter and grandchildren. After moving north, she purchased her cherished condo in Farmington Woods, where she loved spending her days surrounded by the beauty of the community. She took great pride in her home, enjoyed being part of the Farmington Woods Women’s Club, and often watched the golfers on the 18th fairway, from her patio, collecting stray golf balls to gift to her grandson. She delighted in sending photos of her beloved cat, Michelin to her daughter and granddaughter, sharing their silly antics throughout the week. She also savored her time dog-sitting her favorite little Havanese, Archie

A devoted and compassionate nurse, Diane found great purpose in caring for others. For more than five and a half decades, she dedicated her life to nursing—beginning her career shortly after graduating from nursing school and continuing to work part-time until just months before her passing. Her final position was at Riverbend at Farmington (formerly Anthology), where her residents were truly the highlight of her day. She was admired by her colleagues and adored by those she cared for, remembered for her kindness, humor and gentle spirit.

Diane loved life—kind, selfless, and endlessly giving. She devoted her heart and soul to her daughter and son-in-law, Michal and Marco Carducci of Farmington, and her two cherished grandchildren, Gianna Diane and Dominic William, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. She also held dear her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Robin Leonard of Texas, along with nieces and nephews and many extended family members and friends.

She loved to bake, craft, sew, and work on crossword puzzles. Diane was especially known for her famous chocolate-covered pretzels and chocolate chip cookies, which she delighted in sharing with family, friends and anyone lucky enough to cross her path. She enjoyed spending time with her daughter and was happiest cheering from the sidelines at her granddaughter’s equestrian events and her grandson’s sporting games. An animal lover through and through, she shared a special bond with her beloved black cat, Michlyn, her loyal feline companion, as well her “Grandpets” Lola, Smudge, Willow and Pirate.

Diane’s warm smile, quick wit, and caring heart touched everyone who knew her. She found joy in life’s simple moments and beauty in giving to others. Though her passing was sudden, her love and light will forever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Her family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the surgical staff, and especially the ICU nurses at UConn Hospital, who cared for her with such compassion, dignity, and respect. Their kindness will never be forgotten. Diane was deeply devoted to her faith, and her family takes comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, reunited with her loved ones and in the loving arms of the Lord.

Calling hours will be Saturday, October 11 from 9-10:30 a.m. concluding with a Prayer Service at 10:30 a.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield. Entombment will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. To share a memory of Diane, please visit www.desopofuneralchapel.com