Wilbur Leon Mann

Wilbur Leon Mann, of Charlottesville, passed away at home at the age of 85 on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025.
Leon was born on March 9th, 1940 in Richmond, VA to the late Floyd Wilbur Mann and Elizabeth Bowles Mann; however, he spent much of his youth in Goochland. He graduated from Goochland County High School in 1958. Leon dedicated 37 years of service to the Charlottesville Police Department, where he worked many years as a patrolman and later as a detective.
He was extremely proud of his contributions to the community, particularly in assisting citizens during times of crisis and received special recognition for his efforts from Region Ten. In 1976, Leon was honored to be a part of the detail for the Queen of England when she visited Charlottesville. After retiring from the Police Department, Leon spent 10 years working with the U.S. Marshals Service providing court security before finally retiring in 2010. Leon was a member of First United Methodist Church for over 40 years.
He had a knack to find someone he knew everywhere he went. Leon loved to greet everyone he passed with a kind "Howdy" and a head nod. He took great pride in his appearance and possessions, always ensuring that both were a reflection of his meticulous nature and sense of style. Whether it was his carefully chosen wardrobe or the way he maintained his belongings, Leon valued the art of presentation. His attention to detail was evident in everything he did, from the way he carried himself to the things he treasured most.
Leon loved the outdoors. He would spend summer nights sleeping in the hammock or on his screened in porch. Leon looked forward to annual fishing and hunting trips with close friends and family. He was always thrilled to spend time on deep sea fishing excursions or to just be with family in the Outer Banks and Myrtle Beach. In his later years, you could find him watching the History Channel, a hunting show, or any kind of true crime show. He was an elaborate storyteller and loved to share his experiences and memories with all who would listen. We are so grateful that God allowed Leon to spend his last day in the warmth of sunshine and fresh air.
Leon is survived by his wife of 45 years, Lisa; his children, Kevin Mann and his wife Leslie of Charlottesville, Karen Snyder of Rocky Mount, Keith Mann and his wife Faith of Keswick, Kathryn Dillon and her husband Brendan of Reston, Max Mann of Charlottesville, and "adopted" son Paul Critzer of Earlysville; siblings, Barbara Scott of Fluvanna, Nancy Melton of Mechanicsville, James (Jim) Mann and his wife Anne of Goochland; grandchildren, Brittney Wyland, Kasey Schoepflin, Eric Snyder, Landon Mann, Cameron Snyder, Jenna Mann, Megan Mann, Ryan Mann, Laci Mann, and Lyla Dillon; and three great grandchildren. The family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Leon's wonderful caregiver, Bubbie Avery, whose companionship he enjoyed immensely these last few months.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 27th from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Hill and Wood. Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Charlottesville First United Methodist Church with burial immediately following at Monticello Memory Gardens. All are then invited to a reception at the church to share memories and offer support.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer's Association in Leon's memory
Condolences can be made on the tribute wall