Francis D. Leonard

Family and friends are invited to attend Visiting Hours on Wednesday, January 7th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the Vertuccio Smith & Vazza, Beechwood Home for Funerals, 262 Beach St., Revere for Francis D. "Fran" Leonard, who passed away on January 4th at 87 years of age. His Funeral will be conducted from the funeral home on Thursday, January 8th at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Michael the Archangel Chapel at Chelsea Soldiers Home, 91 Crest Ave., Chelsea at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.

Born in East Boston, he was the son of Francis D. Leonard, Sr. and Doris (Pryor) Leonard. He was raised in East Boston and attended Boston Technical High School. Soon after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served during the Vietnam Era. Upon his return home, he married Elizabeth "Betty" (Murphy) in 1963, and the couple settled in Revere where they raised their family. Fran worked for many years at Raytheon before realizing his dream of becoming a teacher. He attended Boston State College and Salem State College, studying nights and weekends to obtain his bachelor's degree. Fran was a teacher at Salem High School for over 32 years, prior to retiring in 2003. His devotion to his pupils led numerous students on the correct path in life.

Fran and his wife enjoyed spending summers in Conway, New Hampshire for many years and that led to Frank serving as a Conductor on the North Conway Scenic Railroad.

He is the beloved husband of Elizabeth A. "Betty" (Murphy) Leonard of Revere. Devoted father of Kenneth Leonard, Sean Leonard and Mark Leonard. Cherished grandfather of Sean Leonard, Jr. and Matthew Leonard. Dear brother of the late Lois Mann and Doris DeStefano.