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Toni Leonetti Obituary

Toni Leonetti An accomplished educator, psychologist and media consultant, devoted Toni Leonetti her life to the art of happiness. A shining spirit and an eternal optimist, Toni believed that her highest contribution to the world was to cultivate joy, share it and help others learn to create it in their own lives. Raised in Bakersfield, Toni was the youngest of three daughters born to Patrick Leonetti, a real estate agent, and Nellie Leonetti, a fashion buyer. She attended Longfellow Elementary School, Sierra Middle School and East Bakersfield High School, where she served as a school representative for Brocks Campus Debber program. After high school, she joined the Immaculate Heart Community, a progressive order of nuns, in Montecito, CA. Believing she could be of most service in the community, Toni left the sisterhood after two years and embarked on a journey that would spark her enthusiasm for more than three decades: teaching children. She moved to Ventura County in the early '70s and served as an elementary school teacher for the Oxnard Unified School District until 2005. She also pursued a career in Psychology, earning a Master's degree and Ph.D. Toni is survived by her daughter, Rosie and granddaughter, Naia; sisters, Patty Leonetti and Nancy Leonetti Dunn; brother-in-law, Dale Reed; niece, Jennifer Dunn; nephew, Patrick Dunn and wife Raquel Dunn; great nephews, Christian Dockery, Mikey Brust and Nicolas Dunn; great nieces Andrea, Michelle and Isabella Dunn; cousins and dear friends. A celebration of her life will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 17, at La Casa de Maria in Montecito. Donations to a scholarship fund for Toni's granddaughter can be sent to Soria School, 3101 Dunkirk Dr., Oxnard, CA 93035, attention Joy Goldowitz. www.bakersfield.com/obits

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Published by Bakersfield Californian on Apr. 16, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Toni Leonetti

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Daniel Canada

April 10, 2025

Love And Light Always

Single Memorial Tree

Daniel Canada

Planted Trees

Mimi Routh

April 6, 2023

Mimi Routh

April 6, 2023

Mimi Routh

April 6, 2023

Mimi Routh

April 6, 2023

Let me try to share pictures from way back. I was a Brownie, and that is my brother, Mike. I don't know what we're making. Toni was always gentle, an angel. Mimi Marylon Moore Routh

Mimi (Marylon Moore) Routh

December 17, 2022

I lived on Thelma Drive, several doors down from the Leonettis, from about 1946. One day I teased Toni on the Longfellow School playground. She was about two years younger. Immediately, she turned aside, went within, made the sign of the cross and was probably praying a Hail, Mary! She was a baby, and she already knew to do this! Boy did I feel terrible! . . . I took the inquiry class and was baptized Catholic 25 years later at Old Saint Mary's in San Francisco, largely owing to that one memory. . . . I was going thru pictures recently and found some treasures, so will be reaching out to Rosie. For sure, she was an angel!

Amy Rouquette

April 23, 2011

Rosie, this is absolutely beautiful. Your mother was truly joyful. Through her life she inspired greatness in so many. What a role model you have in her. And what a role model Naia will have in you. Love you muches.

April 18, 2011

The Leonetti family where are neighbors while growing up in Bakersfield. Toni was always a delight to be around while visiting her older sisters. I did not know her as an adult but what a wonderful life she made for herself.
Libby King Murrell

Kitty Olson

April 16, 2011

I met Toni in 1975 when we moved into our new home in Ventura. I could always count on Toni to bring joy and a new outlook to any topic. She was a very special friend and a wonderful mother to Rosie and so sweet to my daughter, Amy.She has certainly been welcomed , with opened arms, to her new home.

Carolyn Akers

April 16, 2011

My deepest sympathies to family, friends and associates. It does not give any dates of birth or death, not sure if went to school at same time. Just the same, I want to send my condolences. EBHS Class of 1967

April 14, 2011

Oh, my heart is broken...I can't believe Toni is gone, I am so shocked. Rosie and Naia I am so sorry! Toni was always so sweet and happy every time I saw her. She was so over joyed to have a granddaughter in her life. She had a such a light in her spirit. I have known Toni since the late seventies or early 80"s. She would shop in my store, Albertson's often to shop. Always very gracious, kind and I always enjoyed seeing her. My love and prayers are sent to the family, Toni I will always remember you and miss you...Sherry Hughes

Jennifer Hatfield

April 14, 2011

Toni was a second mother to me growing up. She was a true inspiration for all of the lives that she touched, including mine. She introduced me to so many wonderful and unique experiences. Her most cherished role was that of a mother to Rosie, who grew into the same bright spirit that she embodied. She will be truly missed by all those who knew her and loved her. It is comforting to know that such a special angel is now watching over us. Love you Toni!

Jannah Franciosa

April 13, 2011

Your mother's love for you is eternal and boundless, cling to that my sweet Rosie- you and Naia are in my heart and thoughts.

Candy McHenry

April 13, 2011

I met Toni in 1988 as a client. We soon discovered we were also colleagues, teachers in the same district. Our children went to the same middle school. We became very good friends, and though we didn't see each other often, there was always a big hug and warm greetings when we would run into each other. Toni was truly a blessing in my life, and now a gift to Heaven. She will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to all of Toni's family, especially daughter, Rosie, and granddaughter, Naia.

Victoria Reimers

April 13, 2011

I knew Toni Leonetti as I was a client of hers. She was a lady of grace. She influenced my life greatly. I will miss her. Her guidence was alway inspiring, as she lived what she gave as advice. I will miss her.

April 12, 2011

Rosie and Naia - My thoughts and prayers are going out to you both during this time. The joy your mother brought and continues to bring through her memory is so grand! She was a beautiful woman whose spirit will live on in both of you. She will be missed.

GinaMarie Alvarez-Lawson

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