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Lea Ottley
1940 - 2025
Lea Ottley Obituary
She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Bill Ottley; daughters, Laura Gardner (Robert) and Jill Shanahan (Mark); sons, John Billiar (Sharon), David Billiar (Susan), Stephen Billiar (fiancée Angela), and Todd Billiar (fiancée Tanya); sixteen grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
Lea's greatest joy was her family. She balanced raising her children with advancing her education, graduating from the University of Buffalo and later serving as Head Accountant for the Erie County Probation Department until retirement.
She loved her gardens, sunshine, and mystery novels, and she and Bill enjoyed cycling thousands of miles with the Niagara Frontier Bicycle Club. She also volunteered for many years as an usher at Shea's and Studio Arena, passing on her love of the arts.
Lea cherished collecting Hallmark and Precious Moments figurines and ornaments, a hobby she shared with her grandchildren.
Lea will be dearly missed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lea Ottley
3 Entries
Liz Turzillo
Earlier today
I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Lea. A vibrant person who truly enjoyed life and had fun. A lovely woman.
Del Szczesniak
Yesterday
I met Lea in college. We both left to get married and continued our friendship as couples. We both had 6 children and were godparents to each other's child - she to my son Peter and I to Jill. We both got divorced, yet remained friends until she moved away and our relationship was reduced to an occasional Christmas card along with some family news.I am grateful for our friendship'
Gary Stevens
October 10, 2025
Bill, sorry to hear about Lea. Always, had a great opinion of her. Pleasant conversations and bicycling shared adventures will always be remembered.
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