Alan Tillery Leary, Jr.

     Alan Tillery Leary, Jr., first class husband, father and businessman, quietly passed away Saturday, November 4th surrounded by his family.

     A private family service and burial will be held on Wednesday morning, November 8, 2017.

     Alan was born August 25, 1927, to Alan T. and Louise Marriner Leary.  He moved to Morehead City at an early age when his father took a position with the A&NC Railroad.  He grew up working with several paper routes and a small jazz group among his early business ventures.  He was a true sports fanatic and especially loved baseball. 

    He attended UNC Chapel Hill and Louisburg College and also served in the United States Army.  He returned to Carteret County to help his family in the operation of the Beaufort and Morehead Railroad in 1949, and ended up “working on the railroad all the livelong 51 years!”  His dedication to hard work and success, and the fine people around him, allowed the business to help many families in Carteret County live better lives. 

    He is survived by his sister, Matsy Phillips; his children, Elaine Wright, and husband, Mike, son, Alan, III, and wife, Christine, and son, Dusty, all of Morehead City; grandchildren, Josh and Chris Wright, and Nicki and Madison Leary.  He will also be missed by many in-laws, nieces, nephews and their children, who he always tried to “leave with a laugh”.

    Friends and relatives are welcome to visit the family at 1:00 PM Wednesday, November 8, 2017, at the home of Al and Christine Leary at 1913 Snowy Egret Drive in Morehead City.

    In addition to his parents, Alan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Whitford Leary; his younger sister, Margaret “Peggy” Corr, and many of his friends and contemporaries.  He lived a very full life, always close to his Morehead home and family, and always concerned for their well-being.  He was quick of wit, well read in history and politics, and not shy to talk about anything and everything—for a LONG time!

    The family would also like to acknowledge the wonderful help from Larry Carter, a former Beaufort and Morehead employee, who continued to help and care for Dad in many ways until Dad’s passing.  He was there whenever needed, and for that we are thankful.  Also, Patricia Anderson was a god send in Alan’s last months, as she was such a faithful caregiver and comfort to him.  We are grateful for all her service.  The family appreciates all the kindness and comfort shown by so many over his last days.  It was a blessing. 

   In lieu of flowers the family request that memorials in Alan’s name be made to the charity of one’s choice.