James J. Leighton

James J. Leighton, 95, passed away peacefully on February 14th at home surrounded by family. He is predeceased by his wife, Patricia of 64 years of marriage who passed away February 2015 and his son, James who passed away March 2017. He is survived by 11 children: Sister Mary Catherine, Patricia Kellerman (Richard), Barbara Bradford (Craig), Robert, John (Lisa), William (Patricia), Maureen Schneider (Michael), Eileen Dobias (Bill), Margaret Givens (Steven), Joseph (Sue), Claire Corry(Jim), daughter-in-law, Lynn Leighton, 18 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

He was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Camp Hill, PA, the Knights of Columbus Council 4068, a fourth-degree Knight. Jim was a member of VFW Post 7503 and the American Legion Post 109. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Voters Hall of Fame. He served as an usher for the Catholic church for more than 50 years.

A Veteran of WWII, James entered military service in, 1941 where he served in England, North Africa, Italy, and the South of France. Jim was the recipient of multiple service ribbons, campaign medals, and commendations. He was extremely proud of his military service and spoke of his experiences often. Jim retired from the Federal Government in 1978 as an Inspector General Representative.

Thank you to the Hospice of Central PA staff that cared for Jim especially Wendell, RN and Julia, MSW. Their compassion, care, and support of Jim and his family was very much appreciated. A special thank you to Mr. John Heil for his support and friendship over the years.

Relatives and friends are invited to pay respects on Sunday, February 18, 2018 from 2-4pm at Neill Funeral Home, Camp Hill. Mass of Christian Burial at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Camp Hill at 9:30 am on February 19, 2018. Interment will be follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory can be made to Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Camp Hill, PA, to the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirmed, 600 Woods Road, Germantown, NY 12526, or a charity of your choice.