Charlene Marie Leavy

Charlene Marie Troop Leavy, 61, passed away on February 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, creativity, and wholehearted love for her family. Born on March 5, 1964, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Vivian Sandra Hanks and Charles John Troop. She will be remembered for her radiant smile, her adventurous courage, her creativity, and her boundless generosity. She leaves behind her beloved children, her siblings, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were brighter because she was in them. 

Charlene grew up in a lively and loving family alongside her siblings Herschel Newman, Deborah Newman, Judith Newman, Charles John Troop, Charlotte Jean Troop, Marie Elizabeth Mortensen, Marilyn Troop, and Patricia Troop. At just 18 years old, Charlene set out on a bold adventure and moved from Minnesota to Alaska, where she began a long and meaningful career in hospitality and customer service. After five years, Charlene relocated to Pensacola, Florida to begin new adventures. It was there that she met Walter Richard Leavy, Jr., of Trumbull, Connecticut, a U.S. Naval Officer. They had two children together, Walter Richard Leavy III of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida and Dalen Nicole Leavy of New York, New York. She always said her two greatest accomplishments were her children; they were her heart. She raised them in Jacksonville, Florida, and later in Atlantic Beach, Florida. 

Charlene devoted more than a decade to working at Wal-Mart, where her natural gift for connecting with people shone brightly. She also served as a regional manager for Bealls and Burkes Outlet Stores and moved to Austin, Texas in pursuit of more opportunity. In 2021, she returned to Florida to live with her son, Walter, and worked at Publix. No matter where she lived or worked, she built community. She formed friendships easily and left lasting impressions with her kindness and easy laugh. Customers became friends, coworkers became extended family, and her warmth made people feel seen and valued.

 Charlene had a true green thumb and a generous heart. She nurtured plants the way she nurtured people—with patience, care, and devotion. She loved growing plants for friends and family, often gifting them as small, living reminders of her love. She also had a strong faith in God and shared that with others as well.

 A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, 25 April at 1 p.m. at a beachside ceremony behind the residence located at 11 19th Ave North, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250. The family of Charlene Leavy welcomes memorial contributions to the Charlene Leavy Memorial Fund at https://www.givesendgo.com/charleneleavymemorialfund. Donations will go toward cremation and memorial expenses. The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and support shown during this time.