Richard D. Leland

Richard "Dick" D. Leland, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Lord at his home in Queensbury, NY, on January 13, 2025. He was born on November 18, 1937, in Rochester, NY to the late Darwin and Marion Leland. The family moved eight times in Dick's first twelve years, before settling in Glens Falls in 1949. 

Dick graduated from Glens Falls High School in 1956 and earned his degree from Colgate University in 1960. 

Dick was a dedicated businessman who successfully guided Leland Paper Company, Inc., through times of great change. His efforts earned the company the Adirondack Regional Chamber's inaugural Small Business Award in 1991, recognizing its commitment to community, innovation, and staying power. 

Upon his retirement Dick continued to support his sons in the business and serve his community in quiet but meaningful ways, including making bread runs for a local non-profit. 

Athletics played a significant role in Dick’s life. He was an avid basketball, volleyball, and football player, most notably playing for the Glens Falls Greenjackets. His contributions to the Greenjackets extended well beyond the field, including serving as General Manager, earning national recognition. 

Dick was inducted into both the Greenjackets' Hall of Fame and the American Football Association Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio for his contributions to the Greenjackets. He and his son Steven were also honored as the first father-son inductees into the Glens Falls High School Hall of Fame for football. 

Above all else, Dick cherished his family. One of their favorite traditions was gathering at the local Mikado restaurant to enjoy the “Dick Leland Roll,” a sushi roll named in his honor—a testament to his lasting impact on those around him. His family was blessed by his love and his undying wit. 

Besides his parents, Dick was predeceased by his sister Marcia (Leland) Coleman. He is survived by the mother of his children, Lynn Leland; his sons, Steven (Jennifer) and Jeffrey (Patrina); his grandchildren, Zachary Leland, Caryssa (Justin) (Leland) Ahigian, Alexis Leland, Nathalie Leland (Zack Duckett), Madilynn Leland, Olivia Leland, and Coleman Leland; and his great-grandchildren, Mia Ahigian, Desmond Ahigian, and Beckham Duckett. 

There will be no calling hours. The family is planning a Memorial Service for which specifics will be announced at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Open Door Mission, 226 Warren St., Glens Falls, NY 12801 or the Glens Falls Greenjackets, 22 Hudson Falls Road, South Glens Falls, NY 12803.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.