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Lezlie Porter Obituary

Lezlie Noel

PORTER

To the peace of God and Heaven we acknowledge the release of Lezlie Noel Porter. Born 1947 to Jeanette and H. Chad Turner, in Los Angeles, CA. She attended college in Greece and Denmark, and then graduated from Whittier College. Lezlie leaves a legacy of caring, commitment and courage lived passionately in service to God, family and community. Her ship and compass was her church, and her captain was the Savior, Jesus Christ. Committed to families and children, she is the mother of six and grandmother to eleven. She has served as a Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor, the Former Chair of the National Association of Child Development, Former President of the Nevada American Mothers, Cub Scout Den Mother, AYSO Soccer Coach, and numerous other personal contributions of time, talent, resources and love for child and family. She was chosen National Young Mother of the Year in 1984. Lezlie has actively taught religion to children and adults throughout her life, even to her last days. She devotedly expanded her love for and commitment to education to her family and community as a Trustee for the Washoe County School District into a fourth term. She has lobbied for the cause of education locally and statewide with a primary commitment to the education of our community's youth. Traveling to foreign places, experiencing other cultures, meeting and learning from people the world over has been a highlight of Lezlie's life. Her passport is evidence of this passion. Lezlie acted on every opportunity to both visit new places and share these experiences with her children and husband.

Drama and the arts were some of Lezlie's passions. She had a flair for the stage and was a supporter of the arts locally. Believing in the power and beauty of music to enhance the human experience, Lezlie was a 14 year member of Washoe County Concert Association, now Reno Concerts, and its President for eight years. Lezlie has worked tirelessly to bring the music and musicians of the world to her community. Since 1999, in spite of health challenges of cancer, and numerous stresses and discomforts and indignities of therapies of all kinds, Lezlie maintained the same deep level of caring, commitment and courage. Without complaint, she heroically, moved forward every day in her usual exemplary fashion managing home and family and attending judiciously to her church, Reno Concerts and School Board as well as loving and being a genuine friend to the many who love her. Lezlie is the wife of Clyde Porter, mother of Jason (Jennifer) of McCall, ID, Jared (Vanessa) of Brooklyn, NY, Laney, Justin (deceased), Brett (Sarah) of Carson City, Carley, and grandmother of 11. Her family is her greatest pride, joy and accomplishment and each of her children is truly devoted to and appreciative of her as a mother and an example of all that can be good in human endeavor and behavior. Lezlie's children are following her examples of living life fully and from their hearts with integrity and commitment.

Her example to all is one of truly caring for the important and essential things of life, God, family and freedom. She always gave her best and settled for no less from herself. Her family and friends mourn her loss, recognizing that she has given more than a lifetime in worthy effort and outcome. We have no doubt that in meeting the Savior His words to Lezlie will be, “well done, thou good and faithful servant“. She asks that any gift in her honor be a donation to or a membership for you or your family with Reno Concerts. See: http://RenoConcerts.org, PO Box 12601, Reno, NV 89510. Memorial Service is at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2008 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, corner of Rock Blvd and North McCarran Blvd, Sparks, NV.

Published by The Reno Gazette Journal and Lyon County News Leader on Jul. 23, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Lezlie Porter

Sponsored by Family and Friends of Lezlie Noel.

43 Entries

Laney

January 5, 2013

"Because of Christ there is hope smiling brightly before you, and you need not worry too much about sickness, death, poverty, or other afflictions. The Lord will take care of you. Your responsibility is to keep the commandments, feast upon the words of Christ, and stay in the path to your heavenly home." --Julie B. Beck, Ensign, May 2003

There is a hope smiling brightly before us. The loss of a loved one, when it seems there are so many life memories yet to be made, is never really gotten over or made easy. However, my dear mother was prepared to leave this life to be with our Heavenly Father again. She honored the Father and our Savior Jesus Christ throughout her life. She loved and served her family. She was a great teacher and example at home and in the community. Lezlie is a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The temple is a symbol of our faith: "Each holy temple stands as a symbol of our membership in the Church, as a sign of our faith in life after death, and as a sacred step toward eternal glory for us and our families." --Elder Russell M. Nelson, Ensign, May 2001

We still mourn the loss of a beautiful woman at too early of a time in her life and in the lives of our family members. Yet there is much to smile about each day. Death is conquered through Jesus Christ, our Savior. He Christ, atoned for our sins and was resurrected. We may through him be reconciled with God and live with Him again.

I encourage you to learn more about the plan that our Heavenly Father has for His children. Learn more about what gave my mother hope and what helps us press forward with hope smiling brightly before us. Please visit: mormon.org

I love you Mom!
--Laney

July 22, 2009

Dear Mom,

Remembering you today has been a bit tearful. I'd like to escape from my worldly responsibilities and just watch family movies, thinking back to fonder days with my mother and friend. You truly are an exceptional woman. In every remembrance you are joyful, enthusiastic, anxiously engaged in good causes, and much like the scriptural definitions of charity.

Here are some of the lessons and legacy you leave:
-celebrate more and worry less
-be welcoming of both people and opportunities
-love, love selflessly
-delight in beautiful things
-enjoy the arts and the talents of others
-appreciate heavenly blessings, seek them and know that they can come to you
-be faithful, be diligent, be honest
-reach out to family and friends, connect regularly
-be interested, support family and friends, express gladness in their accomplishments and joys
-do the right thing, do the right thing right now
-raise your voice for good
-work hard and keep learning
-do your homework
-always look and be your best, smile
-live, live every day to the fullest, make every second count, never give in, embrace all that life has to offer

If I can do even a few of these things, I will have a rich life. The standard you set is high, but certainly a worthwhile pursuit. I wish the world had been kinder to you, yet at the same time, your strength serves as an enduring example of steadfast faith. You are truly royal... a beautiful and forever loved daughter, sister, mother, and friend.

"Leave your tears at the door"... easier said than done mom. I know the greatest honor I can offer to you is to live well this life. Thank you for being my mother. I thank my Heavenly Father for granting time with you.

I love you mom.
22 July 2009

Lezlie...Joyful, Sharer of Light, Loved, Eternally Beautiful

December 6, 2008

Lezlie's Legacy (June 2008)

December 6, 2008

Lezlie...an Angel among us

December 6, 2008

Lezlie...Mother...Grandmother...Passionate about Family

December 6, 2008

Lezlie...Passionate about Children, Education, the Community

December 6, 2008

Clyde and Lezlie...the Elegant Couple (2007)

December 6, 2008

Clyde's Favorite Photo of Lezlie

December 6, 2008

Lezlie and Clyde...the Perfect Pair (1985)

December 6, 2008

Lezlie...the Star of the Show (1953)

December 6, 2008

Michele LAMASTER

November 25, 2008

I just learned about this great loss. My heart goes out to all of Lezlie's family. Dr. Porter, I am so sorry. God bless you and your wonderful family always.

Lynn Allen

September 20, 2008

I am very sorry to learn of Lezlie's passing. God bless you as you mourn.
We attended Crossland High School together.
She was so mature for her age. I am not surprised at all that she accomplished on behalf of others.

Marilyn Starlings

September 15, 2008

To the Porter Family: I know this is late, but I just heard about Lezlie's passing. It has been 13 years since I lived in Sparks. Lezlie was a true friend, caring and compassionate. I have many memories of her throughout the years. Even though I haven't kept in touch, I am saddened at the thought that she is no longer with us. My prayers are with you.

Linda Tindell

August 17, 2008

Though I did not know Mrs. Porter, after reading the memories from her friends and the eulogy given at her service, I am sorry that I did not get to meet this fantastic woman. I met her husband, Clyde, as a doctor, and am very impressed in him as a person and as a doctor. I heard that he is in deep mourning for his wife, and I understand why. My condolences to this wonderful family who has lost a great treasure. I do hope there is an afterlife so these wonderful people can one day be together again.

Leslie Jones

July 30, 2008

Although we moved to California 24 years ago, my memories of Lezlie will last forever. She shared so many home-making principles with me that I applied in raising my family. Her life is a legacy that keeps on giving. May the Lord bless Clyde and her family in this time of separation.

Kris Engstrom

July 29, 2008

Leslie Porter was always such a great supporter of music and the arts in WCSD and the community. I was always so impressed and grateful for her attendance at many school programs over the years. Whenever I invited the school board members, she was always the first to reply and came to watch when she could.

I was so saddened to see that she had been sick and passed and offer my sincere condolences to her family and many friends.

Amber Ohl

July 27, 2008

My prayers go out to the Porters on the loss of Lezlie

Nicole (Barela) Carpenter

July 27, 2008

Lezlie was a great example of integrity, endurance, faith and energy. She inspired me, and still does with her legacy. The trip we spent with the Porter family to Mexico when I was was a child is still one of my favorite memories growing up. Even though we have lost touch through the years your family is still in our hearts.

Bonnie & Paul Swenson

July 27, 2008

Dr. Porter and Family: Our thoughts and prayers and with you during this difficult time. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Patrick and Manena Duncan

July 26, 2008

Dear Porters,
My Wife and I send the stongest of heart felt love and sympathy for you at this time. It is never an easy moment but please know that our love and prayers go to you in this time of need. From the botom of our heart we love you all

Jody Ruggiero

July 26, 2008

Eulogy presented at Lezlie's memorial service, July 26, 2008

By Jody Ruggiero
Trustee, Washoe County School District

First, thank you to Clyde and to Lezlie for giving me this opportunity –I am very honored to be asked to share my reflections on this important part of Lezlie’s life-her service as Trustee for the Washoe County School District (aka school board).

I met Lezlie in 1999 at a community meeting on media violence. Over the course of the next year, she and I had many conversations about education and the issues affecting children. Little did I know that she was recruiting me for the school board! And so our relationship began-with a common bond-our commitment to children and our willingness to live out our beliefs “out loud”.

In some ways, we were an unlikely pair-she was tall and slender-I am short. She always looked and dressed like a model-and I looked and dressed like a mom. She was a very faithful member of the LDS Church-and I was just learning that Mormon and LDS were the same. In 2001, I was sworn in as a Trustee for Washoe County School District and before long, she would be not only a fellow trustee, but also a dear friend.

Being a school board trustee is not a flashy job-in fact, few people know who’s even on the board. But if they know a name, it was Lezlie Porter-she was in it for the long haul-almost 13 years! She cared little that Board service comes with almost no compensation, endless challenges, and long hours. For the greatest part of her tenure, Lezlie was battling cancer. She was very private about her health challenges and never looked for sympathy. Instead, she was just frustrated that she didn’t always have the energy she wanted. The most amazing thing about Lezlie was her absolute dedication to the cause of education and her role as a trustee. She- never- missed- a beat: appointments for the many treatments and doctor’s visits were always well-timed so that she almost never missed a meeting. I have a feeling that it was only because the Board takes July off that this was the last month of her life-that was Lezlie. Her schedule revolved around the school board.

Lezlie was the most gracious of the seven Trustees. She was always concerned about setting a good example for the students and the public: civil, respectful of everyone and professional. During her year as President, Lezlie led us by example and brought us a long way towards being an effective board that could work well together. This was her greatest contribution to the Board itself-she always wanted everyone to get along and worked hard to understand everyone’s point of view and make them feel valued.

Lezlie also wanted very much to reach out to the public (parents, staff, students and the larger community) and engage them in conversations about education and listen to their concerns about our schools. She did the best job of all of us in this regard-frequently meeting with community groups to get their input and often bringing to our attention situations that parents were struggling with.

According to Lezlie herself (from her website):
“Accessibility has been a hallmark of my tenure. I enjoy talking to parents, teachers and anyone else who calls and try to help them in anyway I can. It’s the personal contact that is the most rewarding part of board service.” Those are not just words--she really lived them.

Transparency of the District was important to Lezlie: financially and academically. She took the title of Trustee very seriously; from Merriam Webster: one occupying a position of trust-that was Lezlie. The public could trust her completely with their money and their children.

I believe her greatest contribution to Washoe County School District lies in her passionate belief that each child can be successful-but that our approach to education cannot be “one size fits all.” In this regard, she tirelessly advocated for Career and Technical Education-as a means to engage students in learning, prepare them for the future, and improve their chances of graduating. Thanks in large part to her passion for these educational options, Washoe County School District is expanding the Academy for Arts, Careers and Technology, currently known as the Regional Technical Institute, RTI. Our Gifted and Talented program was also greatly improved by Lezlie’s continued efforts to provide opportunities for “all” students. Music and the arts were a passion for Lezlie-not only as a member of Washoe Community Concert Association for 14 years, but she also worked to bring live performances into schools and support a fine arts curriculum-and we could always count on her to remind the trustees about concerts and cultural events at schools and in the community. Lezlie understood the power of music and art to promote academic achievement and keep students engaged in school.

The Board of Trustees is composed of seven people who bring their own unique talents and ideas to board service. Lezlie’s talents were many, and she brought not only the history of the board with her, but a very strong belief system as well.

Here is a summation of Lezlie’s philosophy of education and Board service:

If it’s in the best interest of the kids, advocate for it.

It’s always about the kids.

Parents are partners-welcome them and develop relationships with them.

All teachers, principals and administrators should be great or at least good-or should get another job.

A culture of respect solves many problems-this is a central theme of character education.

Character Education is part of education.

Don’t offend people’s values.

There is no such thing as a dumb question-ask lots of them.

Listen to everyone.

Share what you learn with the board-bring back information from reading, conferences, workshops

Keep learning about education and children’s issues and what other districts are doing-Lezlie always took a pile of reading when she traveled.

Health, wellness and nutrition are keys to student success-a healthy child is a child who is ready to learn.

All kids should feel safe at school.

The Board is an example to the community, the district employees and the students.

It’s not an education without the arts.

Career Technical Education is an important part of a world-class school district.

Look for solutions-keep an open mind-there’s always a better way to do things.

Visit schools and talk to staff.

If something is wrong, don’t give up on trying to fix it-even if it takes a long time.

And above all, speak up for what you believe, even if you’re criticized for it and always be kind to everyone.

I consulted the Trustees, Superintendent Dugan and the administrative staff on their thoughts about Lezlie-what stuck out in their mind as they worked with her over the years. I came up with a list that includes both humorous and serious reflections of her service.

Lezlie was the trustee most likely to:

1. Ask the tough questions.
2. Compromise when appropriate.
3. Briefly leave a meeting to take an important cell phone call-from her daughter Carley.
4. Volunteer to serve on a committee.
5. Go for the sweets-only I surpassed her.
6. Provide the historical perspective on Board and district action.
7. Attend a professional development workshop for teaching staff.
8. Announce student awards-especially in music, art and CTE.
9. Raise her hand to ask a question before the presentation had concluded.
10. Participate in a meeting by telephone-most of us just skipped it if we were out of town.
11. Need help with her computer-I think her fax machine had paper in a roll until a year ago-she was on the trailing edge of technology.
12. Be the first to welcome a visitor to our meetings.
13. Bring forward a parent’s concern.
14. Be there-meeting, school event, community event.
15. Thank staff for a job well done.
16. Listen to teachers and staff.
17. Bake Jim Barclay a cake after his grant presentations.

In closing, I’ve known many folks who advocate for children and education-but I don’t know of any one who has worked harder on behalf of children than Lezlie Porter. Lezlie packed more into her sixty years on earth than most people who live to be a hundred. The work she did changed our district forever and improved the education of thousands of children. Her passing is a tremendous loss for us all-the board, the school district, the community and most of all, her family and friends. Her life was a gift to our community and I am blessed to have been her friend.

Gloria Casci

July 25, 2008

My sincere condolences to the Porter Family as
you go through the loss of Lezlie. She truly made a difference in the WCSD and eduction in general.
My deepest sympathy,

Jim Haining

July 25, 2008

Clyde and family,

Our hearts go out to you all. Lezlie was a great lady and friend. We have been gone from Sparks for 10 years, but treasure our friendship. I know she will be missed greatly but the assurance of the resurrection and Second Coming bring peace and comfort during this difficult time.

We miss you all.

Jim and Debbie

Virginia (Ginger) Moore (Christensen)

July 24, 2008

I will always cherish the memories I have of growing up with Lezlie and the Porter family. I was blessed to have known her. I was introduced to her daughter Laney by my Mother Gale and Lezlie just before we entered Kindergarten. They spent many years trading care and sharing playdates with us and the rest of the children in our families. I will always remember Lezlie as a strong woman who staid true to her beliefs and convictions. She based her life upon faith, family and love. Her family should be so proud of her accomplishments and the legacy she has left. I know with all of my heart that she has been met with the open arms of the Lord and will continue her work through him. My heart goes out to the Porter family as they deal with such a great loss.

Jennifer Jaca/Louise Peterson

July 24, 2008

My most earnest condolences and prayers of comfort and peace go out to your family. We are never truly prepared for the loss and void of one who is beloved. My heart aches for you in the time to come, but hopefully the Lord will give you comfort. Take care until we meet again.

Karen Wright

July 24, 2008

Dear Porter Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Lezlie and I developed such a tender friendship as I was helping with Justin. I never knew where she got all that energy to do all that she did. She was amazing! Lezlie could talk about any subject. I know she is now able to make up for lost time with her darling boy. May you all have the peace she now has.

Tony and Edna Dianda

July 24, 2008

Dr Porter and Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Lezlie was such an influence in our community especially on the school board looking out for the kids. God bless you all in this time.

Janet and Richard Thwaits

July 23, 2008

We love the Porter family and share in their loss. Lezlie was such an example to me of everything good and true. My life is so much richer for having known her and partaking of her cherished friendship. May fond memories and knowledge of life eternal bring you peace and solace at this time. We love you all.
Janet and Richard Thwaits
South Jordan, Utah

Chris Kelly

July 23, 2008

I truly loved Lezlie with all my heart. She was my first mentor and saw in me the potential I am just now able to materialize. She set the bar high in energy, service and unconditional love. Lezlie will be sorely missed. I can only imagine the reunion she is having with Justin though.

I grieve with you,

With love and tenderness,

Rena (Christensen) Mullen

July 23, 2008

Porter Family,
Ever since I was a young girl, I have admired Lezlie's commitment to the health and well-being of her family and friends. She was a good neighbor and friend! My prayers are with you!

Nettie Oliverio

July 23, 2008

Not only Washoe County, but in fact all of northern Nevada has benefited from Lezlie's vision for and dedication to the Arts. We who knew her through that conduit extend our thoughts and prayers to the Porter family...we all share in your loss.

Gloria Harris

July 23, 2008

My prayers are with all of you. I have enjoyed knowing Lezlie and associating with her. We had a very fun time during a couple of her campaigns for the school board. Since that time I have called upon her several times when my grandchildren were having school problems. It didn't take long to get answers. I have loved and appreciated her for years.

Shauna Massey Buxton

July 23, 2008

Lezlie Porter was a fine example, one who lived with integrity and stood for all that is right and good. I applaud her for her courageous fight. She has accomplished much and truly made a difference.

Sincerely,

Shauna Massey Buxton

Lee and Sharon Duncan

July 23, 2008

Our prayers and thoughts are with the Porter family at this event of their lives. We appreciate all the memories and kindness that we had with them and their family as we lived as neighbors to them. Lezlie will always be a standard in our lives and we cherish her very much

Danielle Zarrella

July 23, 2008

Dear Jared and family,

It was a sad coincidence to read your mother's obituary this morning as I was reading my own father's, just a column over. I am sorry to learn of her passing and wish you and your family strength as you
all deal with her loss.
With deepest sympathy,
Danielle

Vanessa Daza

July 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Porter family.

Brittany Diehl (Christensen)

July 23, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Porter family.

Gale Christensen

July 23, 2008

We have such fond memories of our years as neighbors on Shadow Lane. Our children were raised together and shared so many adventures. God and family were Lezlie's top priorities. As friends and neighbors, we planned parties together, shared ideas, shared kids, started a children's play group and worked together with the American Mothers Assoc. She was a brave and courageous woman who never gave up trying to save her precious Justin and then herself. Our prayers are for you her children, grandchildren, and you, her husband Clyde as you continue with your earthly life without her physical presence. Know that she is alive in all of you and her love is always with you.
Fondly, Gale & Kevin Christensen

Tammy Miceli

July 23, 2008

I have never known a more accomplished and dedicated woman as my former Mother-in-Law, Lezlie. She has exemplified forgivness and love extending to all members of our family, including us as part of their extended family always. Brennan will have a great legacy of a grandmother who was a faithful and valiant servant to her family and community. We will miss her!

Bill Vineis

July 23, 2008

She was a great friend and tireless in her efforts in what she believed in. I know she shall be greatly missed by many and I look forward to seeing her in the next stage of life.

Holly and Dan Mitchell

July 23, 2008

Her work on this side of the veil has been invaluable. Imagine what she's doing on the other side. My prayers are with the Porter family. We will miss seeing her sweet smile.

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