Mary Leonard

Mary was born on July 13, 1927 in New York City to the late Ethel and William Anderson. On June 4, 1949, she married William J. Leonard of New York City. She was a LOMA Certified Actuary, but the career where she excelled was as a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She raised four children both at home and abroad while supporting Bill’s career in international finance. Behind every great man there is an even greater woman. Mary was a smart and sharp dresser, enjoyed international travel, loved to knit, and was an avid reader, as evidenced by her volunteerism at the Forest at Duke library.

She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Bill Leonard, three children: daughter Donna Barclay of Raleigh; son Dr. Bill Leonard and wife Ann of Pinehurst; daughter Nancy Hunt and husband Raymond of Richmond; three grandchildren: Krissten Zimmerman of Raleigh; Tripp Zimmerman and wife Katie of Chapel Hill; Mary Leonard of Raleigh; and two wonderful great-grandchildren Charlie and Audrey Zimmerman of Chapel Hill. Her daughter Audrey “Honey” Leonard preceded her in death.

A service will be held to celebrate her life on May 12, 2021 at 2 pm at Mitchell Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Raleigh, on behalf of Mary Leonard.

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