Leonie R. Goodfriend

Leonie Ruth Katz Goodfriend (Lee), passed away on February 22, 2026, at 95 years young. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, she was the beloved daughter of Esther and Levy Katz.

Leonie graduated from Weaver High School Class of 1948 and went on to UCONN School of Nursing Class of 1953, earning her Bachelor of Science. Being a Registered Nurse came naturally to her as she loved providing care & comfort to her patients.

She shared 3 months shy of 70 years of marriage with her husband and best friend, Harvey. Their years were filled with devotion, laughter, resilience, and unwavering support. Together they built a home centered on family and tradition, raising their children in Simsbury, Connecticut.

In retirement, Leonie and Harvey embraced adventure. They traveled internationally, sailed their boat together, and continued creating memories well into their later years. In a moment that captured her courage and love for her husband, Leonie finally built up the nerve to ride with Harvey on his motorcycle, and they rode well into their 80's - a journey that included a memorable trip to Nova Scotia.

Harvey and Leonie ("Chick" to him) lived at Duncaster for the last 8 years of her life, where she was truly a social butterfly. She embraced community life fully, participating in countless activities and forming deep and lasting friendships. Her vibrant involvement and presence made her a beloved figure - so much so that one might have thought she was the mayor. It was there that she blossomed into a wonderful writer, becoming a regular contributor to Duncaster's "The Thistle," the community's monthly newsletter, sharing reflections and stories that resonated with fellow residents. Her passion for storytelling culminated in the recent book publication of her 137-page memoir, Once Upon a Time: Memory Musings, a labor of love completed over six years and filled with cherished memories and photographs. She beamed with pride upon its completion - a testament to her perseverance, creativity, and sharp mind.

She loved to laugh - especially at herself. In family lore, many days were punctuated with the joyful declaration, "Mom made a funny," a phrase that perfectly captured her playful spirit and the light she brought into every room.

Leonie is survived by her husband, Harvey, their two sons, Jared (Michelle); Steven (Carolyn), and her cherished daughter, Beth. She adored and was so proud of her grandchildren David (Emily), Michael (Kelsey), and Jordan (fiancé Alex) and was looking forward with joy to Jordan and Alex's upcoming wedding in May; her great-grandchildren - Jack, Reid, Kimmy, and Annie who brought her incredible happiness in her later years, spending hours every day looking at pictures and videos of them.

She is also survived by her nephews, Robert (Bobbie) and David (Boo) who self-claimed the title "Leonie's favorite nephew"; her great nephews to whom she was "Onie", Ben (Mackenzie), Dana (Madelaine), Evan (Sarah), and Peter (Blair), along with all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was predeceased by her brother Ruel Katz.

Leonie will be deeply missed and remembered for her bright smile, her warmth, adventurous spirit, joyful sense of humor, and extraordinary gift for connection.