Our beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Patricia Michelle Leonard, tragically passed away on December 19, 2024, at the age of 21. Patty’s infectious laugh, her vibrant energy, and her boundless warmth brought light into the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though her time with us was far too short, her legacy of love, joy, and laughter will forever live in our hearts. Born on September 23, 2003, Patty was the cherished daughter of Nina Kelly-Leonard and Michael Leonard. She is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by her family, including her siblings William Kelly III and his wife Leah Kelly, Connie Kelly, Catherine Kelly, Myles Leonard, and James Leonard.
Patty is also survived by her grandmother Patricia Leonard, her cousin Alexa Leonard, her nephew Jackson Cole Napolitano, and many other extended family members, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom held her in the highest regard. She was predeceased by her beloved grandparents Sylvester Leonard, Samuel Tarantino, and Concetta Tarantino, as well as her Uncle Bobby Leonard. A true animal lover, Patty was the devoted mother of two Pomeranians, Mochi and Moo, who brought her immense joy and comfort. Patty’s heart was as big as her spirit, always reaching out to those she loved, and her life was a testament to the power of kindness, empathy, and laughter.
Patty grew up surrounded by love and admiration. She attended Waldwick High School, where her intelligence and sense of humor set her apart. She later moved to Florida to pursue her dreams in Criminal Law, aspiring to make the world a better place. Even though she was living away from home, Patty made it a priority to stay connected with her family, calling them daily on FaceTime. Those conversations, often filled with laughter and updates on her life, will be remembered as some of the happiest moments for her family.
In every room she entered, Patty had an undeniable presence. From a young age, she was wise beyond her years. She could read novels and tie her shoes by the age of three, showing an intelligence and curiosity that never left her. Patty’s natural charm and quick wit brought joy to all those around her. She had an uncanny ability to make others laugh, often bursting into song at unexpected moments, bringing lightheartedness wherever she went. Patty’s joy for life was infectious, and her laughter, often echoing through the rooms she graced, will be a cherished memory for everyone who knew her.
Patty’s legacy extends beyond her radiant personality. She was a fiercely loyal friend, always there for those who needed her. Whether it was offering a shoulder to cry on, a word of encouragement, or simply making someone smile, Patty’s heart was always open to the people she loved. Her ability to be unapologetically herself—genuine, warm, and full of life—was a gift to everyone she encountered.
Despite the great loss we feel, we take solace in knowing that Patty’s light will continue to shine through the countless lives she touched. Her love for her family and friends, her laughter, and her vibrant spirit will live on in the memories she leaves behind. Patty’s warmth and energy will be forever etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
In honor of Patty’s legacy, her family invites you to join them for a wake service on Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Luke Roman Catholic Church, 340 N. Franklin Turnpike, Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423, with interment to follow at St. Luke’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the National Down Syndrome Society in Patty’s memory. Please make your donations in honor of Patricia Leonard, and direct them to Patricia Leonard at the email: [email protected].
Patty’s light may have been extinguished too soon, but her warmth will continue to glow in the hearts of those she left behind. The love she shared, the laughter she sparked, and the memories she created will never fade. We will forever carry her in our hearts, and she will always be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Visitation Details: Thursday, January 2, 2025 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Vander Plaat Funeral Home 257 Godwin Avenue Wyckoff, NJ 07481. Friday, January 3, 2025 10:00 AM St. Luke’s Roman Catholic Church 340 N. Franklin Turnpike Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423. Interment St. Luke’s Cemetery 340 Franklin Tpk. Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ 07423
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel in the wake of Patty’s passing. It is impossible to fathom the weight of this loss. But we take comfort in knowing that Patty’s spirit, her laughter, and her boundless love will never leave us. We will hold her memory close, finding solace in the joyful moments she brought to our lives. To Nina, Michael, and the entire Leonard family, our hearts break with you, and we send our deepest condolences. Patty’s warmth will remain with us all, and her light will continue to shine through the love and memories she leaves behind. She will never be forgotten.
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