Obituary of Lavena Leonard

LEONARD-Lavena Nancy Leonard, age 101, of Seymour, beloved wife of the late Martin F. Leonard, passed away peacefully May 15, 2012 at Griffin Hospital with her family by her side. Born in Baltimore, MD, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Hattie Braswell Hines. Mrs. Leonard was a home maker and resident of Missouri and Arkansas before moving to Seymour two years ago. A consummate optimist and always generous; she was a lover of fashion, an avid dancer, and will be remembered for her graceful elegance. Mrs. Leonard was a Gold Star Mother, having lost her son Donald Smith, as a casualty of the Korean War. She is survived by her devoted children, Michael G. Leonard and his wife, Lindy of NV, Patrick M. Leonard of FL and Kathleen M. McCarthy and her husband, Brendan of Bridgeport; 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and son, she was predeceased by 2 sisters and a brother. A Memorial Service will take place on June 29, 2012 at 10:00 AM in the Calvary Cemetery and Mausoleum, St. Louis, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300 Jacksonville, Florida 32256. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Ave., Ansonia, is in care of arrangements. On line condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.