Laura Leonard Obituary

Laura Shirley Leonard, Shirley, aged 94, passed away on October 5th, 2024. She was predeceased by her soulmate "Jack" John K. Leonard. Shirley and Jack truly had a special love. Shirley was known for her vibrant personality and an unwavering zest for life. A dynamic individual, known for her strong-willed personality and love for life. She was never afraid to speak her truth and will be truly missed.
Shirley's professional career spanned 30 years at Hartford Hospital, where she dedicated herself to helping others and making a difference in the community. Her commitment to service extended beyond her professional life, as she was a proud 50-year member of the East Hartford Woman's Club, a hospice volunteer and opened her home for all who needed a place to stay. Alongside her husband of 53 years, Jack and Shirley were also charter members of Glenbrooke, where they both contributed to the community's growth and spirit.
Shirley had so many loves and interests, but her deep passion was for the UCONN women's basketball team, reveling in the excitement of each March Madness season. Go Huskies! Her hobbies and interests were as unique and vibrant as she was. With too many to count, Playbills of her favorite Broadway shows lined the walls of her home and music always filled the air. Shirley's love for reading was matched only by her love for social gatherings which included her beloved book club.
She loved Charles Schulz's, Charlie Brown and Snoopy. Each year she started with a Snoopy calendar which was marked with everyone's birthday and special occasions. She had a greeting card for every possible event, showcasing her thoughtfulness and consideration. A pioneer in recycling, Shirley was one of the first to reuse and repurpose items in her home creatively. She was also renowned for her fabulous parties at 555 Forest Street where everyone could enjoy the dance floor and a disco ball in the attic. Her home was adorned year-round with Christmas decorations, to keep her house cheerful and full of love. Shirley loved her Rhode Island beach cottage where her friends and family gathered for good times and lots of laughter, come rain or shine.
Shirley's happiest moments were when she was surrounded by her family, with whom she instilled the love of life and the importance of connecting with each other. She will be forever missed and remembered by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and her multitude of friends. Shirley's children and their spouses; Sean and Haidee Leonard of Manchester, CT. Jayne and Craig Randall of Granville, MA, Karen S Leonard of Dunedin FL, Patty Leonard and Danny Cronin of Higganum, CT, William Leonard and Amy Cooper of San Diego, CA.
Shirley's 10 grandchildren, and their partners; Jonathan and Kimberley Leonard, Aaron and Sarah Leonard, Peter and Neda Leonard, Laura and Hans Decher, Kyle Randall, Lydia Randall and Dillan Eamiello, Dylan Cronin and Jessica Pitts, Cahill Jack Cronin, Dante and Solana Leonard and Billy Leonard. As well as her twelve great-grandchildren, Morgan, Jared, Katie, Marina, Jacob, Jack, Darian, Mila, Russel, Elle, Owen and Evan.
Shirley also wanted to send her love and gratitude to all her friends that became her family at Evergreen Crossings.
Shirley will be celebrated by her family at a private memorial and laid to rest next to her husband Jack, in Stonington, Ct. In lieu of flowers, Shirley wanted people to donate to the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence at endsexualviolencect.org. A Social Service organization she believed in, located in East Hartford, CT.
Thank you for all your love and kindness, signing off for the last time, SOL.
Shirley Ostman Leonard