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Carol Leonard
1946 - 2017
Carol Leonard
1946 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1946
DIED
2017
Carol Leonard Obituary
8/30/46 – 2/21/17
Carol was born in San Antonio TX, the middle daughter of Harold and Ann Jaffrey. Her family moved often during her childhood. In 1963 the family moved to Clinton, IA as she started her senior year. Gene Leonard hit the jackpot when Carol sat across from him in English class. They went to the Clinton HS prom together in 1964 and then they both went on to the Univ of Iowa, where the relationship wavered.
As a second year teacher in Alexandria, Carol called an old friend of Gene's to learn of his address and begin writing to him in Vietnam. Their bond was renewed with such ardor, that when Gene returned from Vietnam in Oct 1970, they were married in April 1971. Their love has produced three lovely daughters - Miriam (Dave), Erica (Casey) and Ginger (Tim). She was happiest as Grandma Carol, when she was playing with her six grandchildren - Liam and Owen Horgan, Adilene and Lyle Johnson and Samuel and Oliver Poulton. The joy they gave Grandma was beyond words.
Carol spent her entire career as a beloved and popular teacher in the Alexandria Public Schools, where she was affectionately known as the "hat lady." Her teaching methods were legendary and parents would lobby hard to get their children into Carol's class.
She was the consummate hostess, bringing friends together for parties, craft lessons and game days. Carol and Gene both retired in 2006 and enjoyed traveling, golf, mahjong and babysitting their six grandchildren. Carol was always surrounded by friends and family whether in Falls Church or Mt Gretna, PA. She gave selflessly to everyone and her joy and warmth will be missed.
Visitation: 10am - 2pm, Saturday, Feb 25 at National Memorial Park Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA 22042
Burial: Private for Immediate Family
Memorial Service: 5:30pm, Sunday, Feb 26 at Temple Rodef Shalom, 2100 Westmoreland St, Falls Church, VA 22043. Reception with appetizers to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Mt. Gretna United Methodist Church: PO Box 427 Mt. Gretna, PA 17064.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Doris Goldsmith Melnick
May 26, 2017
Dear Gene, Phyllis, Miriam, Erica, and Ginger,
I am deeply sorry to hear of the tragic passing of your beloved wife, sister, and mother, and one of my oldest friends, Carol. I find it hard to select the words to express my sorrow and condolences at such a profound and untimely loss.
Carol and I crossed paths in fifth grade in Denver at Teller Elementary, I believe, and then spent a few years together in junior high/high school, before the Jaffreys moved. We kept in touch through the years off and on, and I was so looking forward to seeing her again in July, hoping to play some games of our latest obsession, Mah Jongg.
There was nothing that Carol could not do as a young girl, and as I read through the lovely tributes to her, I see that this continued throughout her life. And whatever she did, she did with perfection. From her beautiful left-handed penmanship, to her style of dress, to her style of home décor, to her way with her thick hair, to her clever retorts; it was all memorable and gives me such pleasure to recall.
I spent a lot of time at their apartment in Denver, seeing how this family of five lived in comparison to ours. I was allowed to fly from Denver, by myself, one summer to spend a couple weeks of a very hot summer seeing Virginia/DC, and again seeing how the Jaffrey family lived. Her parents were very strict, the house ran with military precision, and I think all of those teenage girls drove her mom a bit crazy that summer. I think there were some female girls cousins there as well. I clearly remember all of us going for ice cream one hot night in Annandale, (Friendly's??) and doing our best to impress some teenage boys. Everything was more fun, more intense, more memorable, and better with Carol.
To each of you, I send my most sincere condolences with the hopes that the cherished and fond memories of happier times will bring you comfort as you learn to live without our beloved Carol.
Sincerely,
Doris Goldsmith Melnick
Newport Coast, California
Sharon Fadgen
March 8, 2017
I knew Carol from our swimming pool. She was a friendly and gracious person, and always smiling. We will miss her!
March 6, 2017
To the love of my life, thank you for having me. My gorgeous CAROL, you are the best thing that ever happened to me and I will love you forever.
Your Lucky Geno
March 5, 2017
Dear Gene. Miriam, Erica and Ginger
When Carol walked into a room, it was always a moment of excitement...what would she be wearing..a fun hat? a boa?? Then we waited to hear what fun story she would tell or what witty comment she would have. It was never boring with Carol.
While I've known Carol for over 20 years, it's only been in the last 4-5 years after we both had retired and had more time, that I really had a chance to do things with Carol and really appreciate her wit, intelligence, energy and her creativity.
I was in awe of all your Mom/Carol was doing...she didn't seem phased at all when she talked about having multiple grandchildren visiting here or at Mt Gretna, going to visit and help take care of grandchildren...etc. And then she mentioned she couldn't play mahjongg because it was during the weeks she was teaching intersession in Alexandria. When she talked about doing all these things, it was always with joy and excitement. Her friends would be exhausted just thinking about all she was doing and were in awe of her energy. I know the coming months will be especially difficult but I'm sure you will find strength from each other and friends.. and from the joys of those 6 beautiful children.
Love, Ann Gordon
P.S. The tribute to Carol was heartwarming and lovely tonight. Each of you captured Carol's sense of humor, zest for life, and her love of and devotion to her family. I know it must have been incredibly hard to stand up there tonight while your hearts are breaking, but you all found strength that you probably didn't know you had in order to honor your wife/mother.
The picture of everyone at Mt Gretna in the program captured so much- the love shared between Carol & Gene and the joy of all the family.
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Rachel Lang-Balde
March 5, 2017
Ginger,
I adored your mom's quirkiness! You have her joy and spunk in you and I see that in how you are so present with your kids.
My heart is broken for you and your family. Your mom was such a special woman who clearly made a positive impact in everything she did.
Send my love to your sisters, dad, Tim and the kids. You will all be in my thoughts & prayers.
Kelly Sicoli
March 5, 2017
Dear Ginger,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of the loss of your mother - and your sons' grandmother. She was a radiant woman, and I see so much of you in her face, or you could say - so much of her in your face - you carry her inside you.
Eva Adamopoulos
March 5, 2017
CAROL
Caring, the first three letters of your name!
Amour,the french version,
Roses,you planted the 3 most beautiful ones with 6 new splendid buds,
One,unique Carol,the jackpot of wondreful Geno,
Loving like Carol!
Carol,
You touched magically our lives,mine and my daughter Daniella. We moved to France,but the ties between us will stay forever and we cherish and
are grateful to have crossed your path.
Carol, you will stay for Eternity in the center of our hearts.Your life shines for ever for everyone who knew you and we
are the lucky ones!
March 5, 2017
Dear Gene & Family
We are so very sorry to hear of Carol's passing. It's hard to believe that such a vibrant, caring person is gone.
I have so many great memories of Carol at SHBR- always laughing, talking , dancing at the wine & cheese parties; exercising with friends in the lower pool; and most of all playing with her precious grandchildren. It was obvious how much she loved them. This past summer, she brought her grandchildren to SHBR often and I was able to watch her interaction with them- singing to them & teaching them songs, playing games, teaching them to swim - all with joyful enthusiasm & boundless energy. Not only was she an affectionate, joyful, playful grandmother, but she was a natural teacher who wanted to instill in her grandchildren respect for others and how to behave. We have two grandchildren born this past year and I told Carol that I wanted my grand babies to meet her & her grandchildren this coming summer. I hope her daughters will bring them to SHBR and seek me out.
I learned so much about being a grandmother from watching Carol & I hope I can be as good a grandmother as she.
With Deepest Sympathy
Ben and Kay Cooper
Marie Baglio
March 5, 2017
Carol was someone who made the world a little brighter,
Someone who made life cares a little lighter,
Someone who throughout her life, was a kind of fighter,
And someone who occasionally could pull off and all-nighter.
I didn't know Carol as well as you, but, from what I did know, this was Carol Leonard.
She had the uncanny ability to never know a stranger.
She could laugh at herself and let everyone laugh with her.
She was creative in thought, word and deed, and she let you in on her joy.
What Carol gave to the world was herself. She did it without any great effort and she gave to all of us who knew her. She was FUN! And when you were with Carol you knew you'd never be bored or sad or lonely or self-conscience. You felt protected and loved.
The world will be a sadder place without her, but the world is a far better place because of her.
She gave and she received. Her children and her grandchildren are her legacy. She poured into them her kindness, gentleness, wisdom and compassion. She to all of us, she instilled the desire to follow in her foot steps and to make this world brighter, too.
We'll all miss Carol. But, we all thank God for having known her.
She won't be forgotten because she did so much to leave her mark on all of us.
We'll remember her Christmas parties and campfires! We'll remember her how proud she was of her daughters and those beautiful grand-babies.
We'll remember her laughter and her stories and her crafts. She lived life with gusto, and to the fullest.
Carol's physical life if over, but her energy and joy and humor will remain with us.
Thank you, Carol Leonard! Thank you for giving to us so selflessly and generously. And may God hold you gently in the palm of his hand.
Grace Boeringer
March 5, 2017
Dear Erica and your wonderful family, I got your e mail from Eve this morning, and I hope it is OK for me to write this way to your entire family at this time. My sorrow is very deep as I loved your Mom so much. Phyllis called this morning and it has taken me all day to comprehend the whole thing. I am aware of what you all are going through.
Please give my deep felt sorrow to the family -- your siblings, children and especially Gene. Carol was such a special friend to me and I know we will all miss her so very much. Please keep me informed as to any celebrations you plan for Carol. I loved her very much. My thoughts are with the whole family -- she was so proud of you.
March 5, 2017
Dear Leonard family,
I am very sorry for the loss of your wife/mother. She was a wonderful person and I will always remember how she brought laughter every time I saw her at the pool
Scott Woodworth
March 5, 2017
I was lucky to get to know Carol better through our times playing golf together at Pinecrest. Not only was she a better golfer than the rest of us - she was really funny! She made a comment right away on the first hole about my "ugly putter". I laughed out loud(and it is ugly). I will miss those times with Carol and I send you all my healing thoughts and wishes for peace.
Fondly, Nancy Schroll
We can't begin to appreciate the pain you are in - Carol was a larger than life person who shouldn't be gone so son. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy for your horrible loss.
Love from both of us, Jim
March 5, 2017
Dear Gene and Family,
Over the past few years I've gotten to know Carol as a lively contributor to our Book Club. She also brought me into the Mah Jong group that meets at Carla's house. The loss of such a vibrant woman- wife, mother, friend - is a tremendous shock to everyone whose life she touched. When the shock and pain subside, we'll all have warm, funny and treasured memories so Carol will live in our hearts.
With Love
Marie Monsen
March 5, 2017
Dear Gene.
I have been numb the last week thinking of Carol. So many fond, happy memories I have, thinking of Carol. She was my mentor when Megan came into our lives - she guided me thru the parenting process. And you, Gene, go to Sunday mass partner. I cry thinking of Carol but she was a friend, funny, happy person who came into my life when I most needed her.
With Love and Prayers
Mary and Michael Ball
March 4, 2017
I had the pleasure of working with Carol over the years in ACPS. She was a great teacher and a wonderful person, a lovely lady with a smile that could brighten every day. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Judy McConville
March 4, 2017
Dear Gene and family
I am so sorry to learn of your loss. For the past several years I worked with Carol assessing students for the ELL office. Way back she was my 38 year-old son's superlative English teacher and more recently I saw her in action during intersession as she passed on her skill at knitting caps, which girls and boys proudly donned.
Carol was such a vibrant, energetic force -it is hard to believe she is gone. I hope knowing how many lives she touched so positively gives you some measure of comfort. She spoke of you sll so animatedly, with such love.
My Sympathy, Marcia Evans
March 4, 2017
Dearest family of Carol,
I met Carol at water aerobics. I loved our conversations, her zest for life and her love of the grands. She was a renaissance woman and my life was enriched by knowing her. She will be missed, but left her mark on this world.
Opal Elliot, water buddy
March 4, 2017
I will always remember the smiles she put on the faces of so many of our students at Tucker. We will miss her dearly.
Peace and blessings to your family
Brenda Barnes, Tucker teacher
March 4, 2017
Dear Gene
I have so many fond memories with Carol. I have and will will think of her often and will truly miss her. She was such great support with my wedding. I wish you and the girls healing and fond memories. Love
Patti (Kraus) and Steve Holt
March 4, 2017
Dear Gene,
How sad we were to hear that Carol had passed - we are so sorry for your loss. We loved Carol - she was such a great lady.
The last memory I have of Carol is at Grandma's funeral (Madonna). I remember walking back thru the cemetery and there was Carol and you sitting on a bench under a tree visiting. I always admired your relationship and love for each other; something that undoubtedly lives on in your girls.
I can see Carol sitting on a bench in heaven waiting for you, Gene. I imagine her with Mildred also, it makes me smile. Praying for you and your family during this time. Love
Stephanie (Torpey) and Nathan, Ruby, Jesse, Maria, Harry & Bea Brown
March 4, 2017
Gene and Family
Words cannot express how sorry we were to hear of Carol's passing. Gene you were the love of her life. She loved her girls and was so proud of each one of you. Her grandchildren were the shining lights.
It is said that sorrow equals your love. Today your sorrow knows no bounds. As time passes we will remember Carol as a great nurturer.. She always included everyone and wanted everyone involved.
We remember the dinners and breakfasts at the Leonards where the food was delicious and plentiful. What a great sense of humor she had and a quick wit. Gene and Carol made a perfect couple and we always enjoyed spending time with them.
What a wonderful legacy Carol has left. We are all better for having her in our lives. Love to all of you,
Dale and Joann Torpey
March 3, 2017
We'll always have fond memories of sitting on the porch in Mt Gretna chatting with Carol and seeing all of you each year at the art show. The summer won't be the same without her. Our sincere and condolences on your loss.
Christine and Ben Slotznick
March 3, 2017
Dear Gene,
Carol was a dear wonderful friend. I loved the time I spent with her and family members. When I had my cancer surgery, she drove me to appointments, brought me food and told me wonderful stories about her grandchildren. When I became a grandmother she shared in my joy and we constantly exchanged pictures and stories about our grandchildren. Because of her friendship, I'm in a book group and have made new friends.
I met you and Carol through Erica and Ginger, two of my all-time favorite (and best) students. It has been a privilege to watch them become accomplished adults and devoted mothers. That is not surprising considering the parental love and support they had growing up. Not many of my students ever talked with me about their families- other than to complain. Erica and Ginger often spoke kindly of things they had done with you and Carol.
I told Erica none of this- Carol's death- makes sense. Your wise daughter told me it was useless to try to make sense of something that makes no sense. I'm so sorry. I hope your memories and the love of your family will help ease some of the pain. Carol was a rare friend and I will miss her.
With much love and sympathy
Judy Grumbacher
March 3, 2017
Dear Gene and daughters,
I realize that many people are still reeling from the shock of Carol/your mother's untimely death. Also sure that none of us feel as much sadness and loss as you do.
The wake and memorial service were both so beautifully done and I keep goingover aspects in my mind. The letters were so touching because they did not try to be. The synagogue was beautiful and had such spirituality. carol/your mom was beaming.
Such loss generously shared among the many who cared deeply for Carol. Thank you for such a beautiful tribute.
Love, lydia
March 3, 2017
Dear Gene
I haven't written to you before this because I really don't know what to say. If it doesn't seem real to me, I know it's hard for you to believe, too. All the words of consolation, all the notes of sympathy, all of the wonderful tributes to Carol; all of those things help, but it hasn't sunk in yet that sweet kind, fun-loving Carol is no longer with us. It's like a paralyzing power outage that you can't wait to get fixed. I know your girls and grandkids are a comfort to you, but they have their own lives - so you dear Gene, go on bravely to find a way to make sense of your new life without your remarkable Carol. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers! So is Carol!
Love, Marie Baglio
Sue Sherry
March 3, 2017
As a friend Carol was funny, loving, caring, engaging, entertaining, playful, witty and creative. She made everything more fun and loved to include others in her many activities and craft endeavors. She taught us to quilt, and knit, and croquet, and make jewelry pins of ladies in fancy hates, and create elegant serving platters from antique dishes and candle sticks. We recycled Christmas cards with her to design geometric ornaments. Each month she had a new arts and craft project to teach us. Carol also shared this talent with her students, and taught boys and girls, young and old to create hats, and scarves and purses. It was very gratifying to Carol to see her students take great pride in their creations and new found skills.
Then there were the games. She gathered us together for Bunco, and Farkle and Mah Jongg. Carol was a patient and effective instructor who cultivated several devoted Mah Jongg Mavens. At the neighborhood pool we were never able to just paddle around on our noodles. Oh no, Carol would implement playful water aerobics lessons and antics and make us all participate panting and laughing all the way! And at golf we would often swing and miss the ball from laughing so hard at her jokes.
But Carol's infectious enthusiasm did not stop at arts and crafts and games. It extended even to vacuums yes vacuums. She was enthralled by the Hoover cordless Linx and gave demos and pep talks so that several of us felt compelled to purchase them for ourselves and then our children.
Then came the Shark vacuum which was self- propelled AND could fit under beds and dressers she again gave a convincing demo making each of us move it around her house (later claiming it was a ruse to get her house vacuumed). But sure enough several of us are now proud Shark owners.
Carol was also a fashionista she once appeared at a ladies' afternoon tea in full evening attire with a silver and black feather boa. On one cruise she arrived at dinner each night wearing a tiara and exquisite costume jewelry, and at Mah Jongg often wore elaborate rings and bracelets and even Mah Jogg socks. One of her favorite jewels was an enamel copy of the Hope Diamond.
Carol's teaching talents at her middle school were legendary. She would motivate less than enthusiastic students with creative assignments. For example, Carol placed a troll doll on each child's desk, explain that these dolls were very special to her and needed to be handled carefully. Then students were instructed to write about the trolls' appearance, thoughts, dreams and the adventures they would like to take. (She also had to remind them to not take off the trolls' undergarments.)
One of our very favorite memories of Carol was her rendition of a special grammar lesson. She would tell her students that they were going to learn about prepositions that day and she was only going to do this lesson once and only once. She then jumped up on top of her desk, stood straight up with hands extended to her sides and say, I am a cloud. And an airplane can travel over me, under me, through me, around me, by me. Students might not remember what a preposition was, but they for certain will remember a dedicated, devoted, caring teacher who provided levity to the learning process.
Words cannot convey how much we will miss her as a friend. Carol's spirit will always be with us. And wherever else it might abide, we know that there are souls gathering together, laughing, playing, creating, and enjoying her loving presence. BUT she will let them all know in no uncertain terms that you cannot use a joker with a pair!
Jeanne Piceno
March 3, 2017
Miriam - Your mom was such a force of nature - one of those personalities where everyone knew when she was in the room - and was glad of it!
She was so sweet and friendly and so very similar to my own mom - one of those folks you just knew would/could strike up a conversation in the grocery store line, or the locker room at the rec center- which I witnessed more than once firsthand - and whoever she spoke to walked away smiling and better for having visited with her. Just a lovely lady, inside and out.
The world was a better place because she graced it for the time she was here. Much love to you all.
Lauren & Brian Katz
March 3, 2017
Miriam - We are so deeply sorry for your loss and please know you all are in our thoughts. We remember Grandma Carol from SEEC and Providence Rec Center. She was such a warm and funny lady and we know how very much she will be missed.
Farin Mirvahabi
March 2, 2017
Dear Ginger, I sent you and your family a condolence card. I buried Richard on the day your mom passed away. So, I know how you feel. Your mom was an unforgettable woman, so full of life. I'm still grateful for all the rides she gave to Bobby while taking you two to TJ. Please relay my condolences to your dad and wonderful sisters.
Lauren SanLorenzo
March 1, 2017
Ginger -I am so so sorry to see the news of your moms passing. I can imagine that the pain is so intense. As you know, I only really met your mom the weekend of your wedding. It was such a lovely time, and as I read the tribute to your mom, specifically the part about her being the "consummate hostess", I smiled. I remember feeling so welcome at your parents home that weekend, everything was just wonderful and while it was my first time there and first time meeting your parents, they immediately made us all feel a part of the fold. There is no doubt that an amazing mom produced you. You are such an amazing person and friend, and as I saw on our last trip to your home, a mom too!
Gary Mazu
March 1, 2017
It saddened me deeply when I read of Carol's passing on Tuesday. She was always sweet, kind, and fun to chat with when we talked on the phone or at the house in Gretna. And she cherished and relished in her role as Grandma. I could see it her eyes and hear it in her voice.
Carol...I will miss your laughter, your smile...and your asking me how your plants & flowers were doing...and would I make sure to water them if there was not enough rain!
My thoughts and prayers are with you all this weekend. I wish I could be there to join in honoring her memory.
Eileen Naples
March 1, 2017
Ginger, I don't know quite how to express how sorry I am that you lost your vibrant mom too soon, but I hope that, at the very least, you feel love from me and others lifting you up during this terrible time.
I only had the pleasure of meeting your mom a handful of times, but each time was memorable and each time it struck me that so many of your incredible personality traits (not to mention your hugh-wattage smile and laugh) -- your warmth and curiosity and openness to people and adventure -- are mirrors of your mom's traits.
I'm so sorry for your loss and all of my thoughts and love are with you and your family right now.
Gertrude Sherman
March 1, 2017
My deepest sympathy and love to all your family. Carol was a true friend and mentor to me at GWMS, and in recent years when she would visit and stop by, she was always sharing news of her children, their husbands, her grandchildren. My husband and I will always recall fondly the weekend we spent with your parents in Mt. Gretna , resting on the porch and attending a music concert together. When it was reading time in HER classroom, she was always reading, too- her clear enthusiasm has no doubt influenced so many students. As a librarian and her friend, I shall miss her.
Julie Morse
March 1, 2017
Your mom was such a great woman. I am so so sorry for your loss.
Catherine Hunter Tracy
March 1, 2017
Your mom was truly special- so warm and gracious and happy. I am so very sad for you and your family- Eric and I are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
SueLynn Levesque McAndrew
March 1, 2017
Oh Miriam, I'm so sorry for your loss and my heart aches for you and your family. Your mom was so wonderful...always so warm and inviting. You are in my prayers.
MaryBeth Holloway
March 1, 2017
Miriam - I am so sorry to hear about your mom. She was such a wonderful person.
Maggie Dierker
March 1, 2017
Miriam, I am so very sorry. Your mom is loved very, very much by so many people. Including me. I have so many wonderful memories of your mom. This hurts more than words can describe I know. I'm so sorry. Love you.
Theresa Connelly
March 1, 2017
There was, and, I imagine, never will be, anyone like Lorac. She was one of a kind. You know I am heartbroken for all of you.
Lucy O'Connell
March 1, 2017
I am so sorry Erica, Ginger and Miriam. I have such fond memories of Carol. She had the best sense of humor and always kept everyone laughing.
Jessica Taylor
March 1, 2017
Heartsick to hear this. Your mom was a wonderful influence in my sister and my life.
Maggie Fox Dierker
March 1, 2017
Erica, I am so very sorry. I love your mom. She was a part of my childhood. I know your heart is aching in a way words do no justice to. Sending love.
Megan Cassidy
March 1, 2017
Oh Erica, your Mom was such an amazing, hilarious, brilliant, creative soul. I have so many fun memories - of us making different kinds of popcorn in the kitchen and laughing, going to the pool... An unforgettable person. I'm so incredibly sorry that she's passed so early and so suddenly. Sending you all love and peaceful thoughts during this difficult time.
Bobby Naemi
March 1, 2017
Still remember all those rides she gave us to school, and just her general warmth and generosity and energy. A truly fun and caring person. All the love for you and your family.
Ayn Sanlo Dietrich-Williams
March 1, 2017
My heart breaks for you and your family, Ginger. I remember your mom fondly and with admiration. She's the type of warm, giving, fun spirit that anyone would be lucky to have in his/her life, much more as a mom
JiaLynn Yang
March 1, 2017
Oh Ginger, I have so many warm memories of your mom and coming to your house growing up for parties and school projects. She always made us feel like we were home. What a wonderful lady. Sending love to your whole family and keeping you all in my thoughts
Suzanne Stewart
March 1, 2017
Dear Ginger, I am in shock! It is so hard to believe your wonderful mother is no longer with us. It seems like I was hearing her in the back yard calling your dad "Geeeeeeeno!" Only last week! We used to chat about all of you and the grandkids whenever we ran into each other at the pool, or on a walk around the neighborhood. My condolences to you and your whole family
Kristin Craig
March 1, 2017
Oh my goodness. I am so sorry to hear this news. I remember so many amazing stories you have told me about your mom. May you always have a few extra nicknacks to move around your house!
Jami Hagy
March 1, 2017
So so sorry for your loss Ginger. I won't ever forget meeting her at your wedding. Such a great lady! These pictures are such wonderful memories. She will always be with you and the family! We are sending our thoughts and prayers from Florida! We love you!
Jack Riehl
March 1, 2017
Life is so good and yet so difficult.....we are here for a certain space and then gone to another space. It can be gradual or it can be sudden....it is never easy....
Depending upon one's beliefs, one goes off to another adventure or perhaps it comes to an end....but is it ever the end?
For me, I don't think it 'ends'....I believe it continues.....it continues through those you love and touched while you were here......Carol lives on through you, Erica, Miriam, and all the wonderful grandchildren who surrounded her with love, fun....joy...tears and laughter...Carol is here in another dimension...she is in the air we breath....she surrounds us....
And Gene....my friend.....my dear friend.....your Dad and your friend...so stunning....so difficult....so confusing a situation....and so close to Carol's space and IN her space......
I spent time these past many days and it continues today and it will continue on for many days...thinking and recounting the many, many, gatherings together....and it pleases me immensely that we did join together several times this past year at "the Homestead"....so filled with memories and glorious stuff! Carol insisting that "she was downsizing!"
Sarah Von Pollaro
February 28, 2017
I'm so so so sorry. Your mom was amazing and you carry her spirit so beautifully. I will be making a donation to the church in Mt. Gretna & at your temple where you so graciously welcomed theo and I just like your mom would do. I can't wait to see you and hug you and help in any way I can.
Catherine Tracy
February 28, 2017
Miriam,
I am so so very sad to hear this. Truly your mom was one of my favorites- just a delight to be around and so gracious and warm. Such a special woman. And boy could you tell she loved your boys. You got those same qualities so her legacy will truly live on. Eric and I are thinking of you as you process everything and deal with this loss. We will be there on Sunday.
Much love to your whole family.
Leslie Marbury
February 28, 2017
There are no words that I can type that convey how sorry I am to hear the news. You are in my thoughts and I love you very much. I hope your family is coping. I can't imagine what you are going through. I only met your mom a few times, but it was very obvious how much she loved you all and how awesome she was. So much personality and unique charm. You carry part of her with you.
Chrystie Swiney
February 28, 2017
I'm so sorry, Miriam. My heart goes out to you, along with my thoughts and prayers. I remember meeting your mother various times and she was always so kind and endearing, easy to talk with, and all around friendly and wonderful. I also remember you telling me on more than one occasion how much you loved and admired your mom. I remember being in awe that you were one of the only adult women I'd ever met that happily lived with her mother, and indeed, didn't want to stop! And I have a vivid memory of you telling me a story one time about how "neat" your mother is-- how she had so many neat hobbies and interests, and just what an overall interesting and fun person she was. I am just so sorry Miriam.
L Dickey
February 28, 2017
Dear Gene and family, I taught with Carol for many years, and I am sorry that I was unable to attend the services this past weekend. I have heard that they were lovely and hugely attended.
I have vivid memories of Carol here at school, and will miss being able to create more.
Olivia Horgan
February 27, 2017
I admired Carol's zest for life, her commitment to education, her positive outlook, and her dedication to family. Mark, Desmond, and I loved participating in the joyous holiday bonfires and sing alongs that Carol and Gene put together with such enthusiasm. My deepest sympathy goes out to Gene, Miriam, Erica, Ginger, and all your families.
Debra Tinkham
February 26, 2017
My deep sympathy goes out to you all. Wrap the memories of Carol tight to you and cherish.
Pat Wilmsem
February 25, 2017
Garey and I will truly miss her smile around Mt. Gretna. Our sympathy goes out to Gene and the family. Carol will live on in due to the wonderful memories she created with you all I am sure.
Gertrude Sherman
February 25, 2017
Dear Gene, Miriam, Erica, Ginger and all your family,
Carol was not only a talented teacher who cared deeply about her students, she was a kind friend and mentor to me when I joined the school as a career-switching "new" teacher. Carol was happy to invite other teachers in to watch her teaching; when she taught there was a happy calm in her class. When it was time for sustained reading, she also had a book, and her enthusiasm as a model will linger in those students' lives. In later years it was always a treat to have her visit GWMS and share the news about her children, their husbands, her grandchildren... She was so proud of them, through hard times and happy times. I will miss her. My deepest sympathy to your family.
Mrs Gertrude Sherman
JulieAnne Edmond
February 25, 2017
I had the honor and joy of working with Carol when I first started teaching at George Washington Middle School in 2002...she was always a voice of reason and wisdom, providing great advice and ideas to a rookie teacher. She was truly exceptional and will be missed and remembered.
Rebecca Mick
February 25, 2017
Dear Gene, Carol was such a wonderful lady and a fine friend. I loved her and this new have left me heartsick. There are no words that will adequately express my sorrow my friend. Joe and I both miss living next door to you and have incredibly fond memories of living across the street from the beautiful Leonard family home. Carol was so gifted and had the most down to earth way of making your home into such a peaceful and loving environment. Joe and I both extend our prayers for the comfort of your broken heart. Carol departed leaving a legacy of tenderness and generosity for your daughters and beautiful grandchildren. I have so many of her little trinkets from her wonderful summer yard sales and I will treasure them always. May angels surround your home and your family, wrapping you all in the unmistaken love of the Lord right now.
Rebecca and Joe
Cheryl Kreider
February 24, 2017
Gene, Ginger, Erica, and Miriam,
I cannot begin to understand the depths of your grief and loss. Know that Dale and I care, and are grateful for the time we knew Carol. We shared many good laughs, talked much about her love for you, her family, and especially the joys of being a grandparent. She will be sorely missed across the porch in Mt. Gretna, but most especially, in your lives. My sympathies to all of you. Love, Dale & Cheryl
Joan Kisska
February 24, 2017
How could I ever forget that beautiful smile of Carol's!! I will treasure it always. Prayers for her wonderful family. With Love, Joan Kisska and Family
February 24, 2017
Dear Gene, Miriam Erica and Ginger, I was so privileged to have spent her last few days with her, her friends and family. She was so lively, energetic, generous and loving. I will miss Carol so very much. My grief is beyond words. My love and heartfelt sympathy to her lovely family. Grace Boeringer
Paula Merfeld
February 24, 2017
Dearest Gene, Miriam, Erica & Ginger,
Our family was so fortunate to have moved to Kings Mill Lane and had the good fortune to meet The Leonards. My older daughter, Laura Casillas Baltas, was 11 when she started spending a lot of time with Carol and family. I was so happy that she gave her so much information on every subject imaginable, "Carol style" always with humor. Thank you, Carol!
God has a very special place for Carol. I pray that Gene and the girls are given strength to continue during this next chapter. May the Blessings of Almighty God Keep you all Safe.
Jill
February 24, 2017
Carol was a participant in the aquatic exercise classes I teach at Providence. She was very social and shared many wonderful stories through the years. Everyone knew her in various ways. You were blessed to have her as a wife, mother, and friend. May all these wonderful memories comfort you as you journey through this time of grief into eventual healing.
Jodie Bryk
February 23, 2017
I am so lucky to been about to have met your mom at both Erica's graduation and Erica's wedding - I loved her humor and smile. I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful family she made. All my love. Jodie Bryk
Jessica Taylor
February 23, 2017
Miriam, Erica, Ginger, and Gene,
I will never forget how your mom welcomed me and my sister into your lives when we moved to Annandale, Virginia as children. Your mom made many teachable moments from my time with your family that have stayed with me as a young woman and adult. She was an absolute joy. I grieve for your loss and wish you comfort during this difficult time. Her most tremendous accomplishment was her lovable and capable daughters. She must have beamed with pride. She will be missed!
Joel Ferris
February 23, 2017
I first met Carol 23 years ago when I was a colleague at GWMS. Immediately it was apparent what a dedicated and enthusiastic and innovative teacher she was. The kids obviously adored her - justifiably so.
Lucky for me that our paths crossed occasionally ever since. In a social setting she was warm and sincere and just downright fun to be with. She spoke of her kids and grandkids and travels with such delight, you couldn't help but smile in her presence.
Carol will be greatly missed.
John and Linda Medlin
February 23, 2017
Dear Gene, Miriam, Erica and Ginger,
Our sincere condolences to you and the family.
Carol was a very special person.
Occasionally running into Carol through the years was such a pleasure.
We would cover many subjects, but, mainly get caught up on "our girls" and of course, the joy of grandchildren.
May the many special memories shared together help you through this very difficult time.
Love from our family to yours,
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