Leamon Whiteford

Waterford - Leamon Whiteford, age 86, from Waterford, passed away Sept. 12, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born and raised on a farm in Russell, N.Y. After graduating from high school, he signed up for the Coast Guard, where he acquired his nickname Whitey. He was stationed at Avery Point in New London for his entire four years and met his life-long sweetheart, Donna, at the local roller-skating rink. They were married in 1959.

While raising two daughters, Leigh and Lynn, he spent his career driving and later supervising for UPS.

He is preceded in death by his wife; his parents; and five brothers: William, Donald, David, Doug and Fred. He is survived by daughters, Leigh Munton (Allen) and Lynn; four grandchildren: Ashleigh Munton, Naomi Munton (Jon Rivera), Allen Munton Jr. (Mackenzie) and Ruth Munton Foltz (Kyle). He is also survived by his oldest brother, Robert; and younger sister Connie, their spouses and many nieces and nephews.

Whitey was a humble man who promised God, at a young age, to follow Him in all his endeavors and live according to God's Word with his actions and in every area of his life. He was an active member of Huntington Street Baptist Church, serving as deacon and trustee, as well as teaching Sunday school and Awanas. He was always active, starting with fake wrestling in the Coast Guard with his buddies and being asked to "come play" with neighborhood kids. He also played volleyball, basketball, bowling, and softball, where he earned another nickname, "Iron Man." His third and favorite nickname was given by his daughters' New Life Singer friend, "Twinkle Eyes." Later on, he was a greeter and usher at Waterford Baptist and eventually a full-time caretaker for his wife, Donna, while she battled dementia.

Calling hours will be held between 5 and 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. Memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday at Groton Heights Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Anchor of Hope Pregnancy Support Center, 492 Montauk Avenue, New London, CT 06320 (www.anchorofhopect.org).