John J. "Chubby" Leonetti

John J. "Chubby" Leonetti, Jr., age 87, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, in Mt. Laurel. Born on September 28, 1938, in Philadelphia, John lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for his family and community.
John graduated from SE Catholic High School (St. John Neumann) and following his graduation, he married the love of his life, Michelina "Mickey" (nee Juliano), in 1960. Together, they built a beautiful life and family, celebrating 65 years of marriage filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and hard work in his cherished wife, Mickey, and his loving children, John J. III (Lori), Michele Seigel, and Dina Ambrose (Tim). John's spirit will live on through his adored grandchildren, Luke, Darren, Matthew, Ashley, Tyler, and Cassie, who will carry forward his lessons of perseverance and the importance of family. He is predeceased by his brother, Richard Leonetti (Sandy), whose memory he held close to his heart.
John's work ethic was unparalleled. He dedicated 28 years as a bricklayer for the city of Philadelphia Water Department. His craftsmanship and skill were evident in the homes he built and the construction projects he undertook throughout the city.
John's life journey took him from the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the serene shores of Wildwood Crest, where he was a member of the Elks Lodge #1896 for 30 years, and later to the quaint surroundings of Cape May Courthouse, where he played saxophone for Cape May County String Band, before settling in Mt. Laurel.
John's passion for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, finding solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His love for renovation projects, gardening, playing the saxophone, and any opportunity to work with his hands provided not only beautiful spaces for his family and friends to enjoy but also a way for him to share his talents and passions with those he loved.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Friday January 16th from 9:30-11 AM at the St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church, 349 Evesboro - Medford Rd, Marlton, NJ 08053. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 AM at the church. Interment will be private.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or to Compassus Hospice, 4390 US-130 Ste A, Willingboro, NJ 08046, www.compassus.com/locations/new-jersey/