Harry O. Leader

Dr. Harry Leader, age 91, passed away on January 19th, 2021. He was born on June 20, 1929 in Lafayette, Indiana, and grew up there. After graduating from Jefferson High School, he went to Purdue University, where he obtained a BA, a Masters in Educational Administration, and later a PHD in Philosophy. While in graduate school, he met and married Elaine Thompson Lycan. They lived in West Lafayette, Indiana, as they merged their two families, and finished graduate school. From there they moved to Terre Haute, Indiana, where Harry became a professor at Indiana State University, with the responsibility of training teachers and administrators. He also instituted several innovations in public education. One of the highlights of their years in Terre Haute, was following Larry Bird through his basketball career at Indiana State. In 1978 Harry and Elaine decided on a change in career path. They chose to go into the Specialty Shoe business in Augusta, GA and later in Greenville, SC. Together they opened and managed 3 stores. Finally in 1990, they decided to sell their stores, and retire in Williamsburg, VA, to be closer to their daughter, Lisa Akdogan, her husband Reggie, and their two children. They lived in Kingsmill, where they enjoyed bridge, golf, and trips abroad. They were members of the Williamsburg United Methodist Church. Harry served on the Williamsburg James City County School Board, and the Olde Towne Medical Center's pre-clinic board. In 2006, Harry and Elaine moved into a cottage in The Williamsburg Landing, where Harry served on the Residents' Board. They enjoyed the beautiful facilities there; but most of all, the staff and friends they made. In 2012, they moved into Assisted Living, where they lived until now. Harry was preceded in death by his mother, Nellie Evans Leader; his father, Harry T. Leader; and two sons, Tom and Tim Leader. He was survived by his wife of 52 years, Elaine Thompson Leader (Williamsburg, VA) who then passed away shortly after on January 24th. He is survived by his daughter, Tracy Leader Henderson; and her husband Rick (Centerville, OH); his daughter, Lisa Akdogan and her husband Reggie (Williamsburg, VA); his son, Scott Lycan and his wife Becky (Blowing Rock, NC). Harry and Elaine were also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. A family service will be held in Terre Haute, Indiana at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Williamsburg United Methodist Church, 500 Jamestown Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23185 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 358 McLaws Circle, Williamsburg, VA 23185.