John T. Leonard

Albany, NY-John T. Leonard, 82, Industry Leader, Devoted Father, Loving Grandfather, and Friend to Many.
John Leonard passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, after a full and rewarding life. He was 82 years old. We will miss his dynamic personality, endless stories, humor, and deep caring for those he loved.
Born in Albany, New York in 1943, John attended St. Patricks' Elementary School and was the first student at St. Patricks to receive a scholarship to attend Christian Brothers Academy (CBA Class of 1960), where he was a star athlete and active member of the JROTC program. His hard work and ambition earned him another scholarship, this time to Siena College (Class of 1964). Both CBA and Siena remained deeply influential throughout his life, with John remaining a lifelong supporter and advocate for both institutions.
After college, John joined Travelers Insurance Company, where he enjoyed a long and successful career, culminating in his retirement in 1993. During those years, John and his family lived throughout New York State and Connecticut, with Albany and West Hartford being the most notable.
The pinnacle of John's professional life came with his 25-year devotion to building MEMIC, initially a start-up insurance company that grew under his leadership into a major regional workers' compensation provider. As President and CEO, John guided MEMIC's transformation into a company with billions in assets, creating opportunities for countless employees and stakeholders. His vision, energy, and leadership earned him numerous awards and widespread respect throughout the insurance industry. He loved every moment of it.
Following his retirement in 2017, John embraced the next chapter of his life in Sarasota, Florida, where he relished the simple pleasures of sunny days at The Vue, afternoons by the pool, and time spent at the Ritz-Carlton Beach Club. Never one to slow down, John remained active on corporate boards and pursued his lifelong passion for investing. Travel was a defining joy and he estimated spending more than 90 days each year at sea, cruising the world and visiting all seven continents. His fondness for a good Marriott became a running family joke and a cherished part of his legacy.
John's love for family was unwavering. He is survived by his three children, Kelley Leonard, Becky Langis (DJ), and John Leonard (Erin), his beloved sister Jeanne Morrill, and eight adoring grandchildren: Shannon, Patrick, Emma, Katie, Braden, Tanner, Darby, and Fiona. He maintained an enduring friendship with his former wife Candace Leonard, and was a devoted uncle to Giles, Alice, and Jim, along with their families. John shared a loving relationship with his longtime companion, Teri Dizon, with whom he created many wonderful memories. He was predeceased by his parents, Alice and James Leonard, and his brother James, his childhood hero.
A proud supporter of Maine, John played an instrumental role in its economic and community life, from MEMIC's success to investing in the Maine Red Claws, dining in the Old Port, and catching Sea Dogs games with his grandchildren.
An accomplished runner, he was a proud finisher of two NYC marathons and countless local road races. He loved the beach, whether at Old Orchard, Martha's Vineyard, or Sarasota. John was a passionate Boston sports fan, enjoying numerous Patriots and Celtics games, though he always kept a soft spot for the New York Giants.
John's generosity was boundless. He gave freely of his time, resources, and wisdom, supporting countless causes and institutions that mattered to him. True to form, he continued giving even after his passing, sharing the gift of donation.
John Leonard lived an extraordinary life defined by purpose, humor, family, and adventure. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
Relatives and friends are invited to St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11:00 am for the Rite of Committal.
To leave a message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com
Those wishing to honor John's memory are encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice in his name.