Born on July 3, 1948 in Evansville, Indiana, Leslie spent her childhood in Evansville, Indiana as the cherished daughter of Neecy & Lewis “Bus” Newman. She shared a special bond with her brother, Alan (Sandy) Newman, and together, the four Newmans lived out their family motto, “esprit de corps.”
Leslie moved to St. Louis to attend Washington University’s art school. There she met Jake Reby during a fraternity/sorority Thurtene Carnival musical, where they were paired up as dance partners. They continued to be each other’s favorite dance partner for their 54-year marriage.
Leslie loved being the mother of their two children, Alex (Marisa) Reby and Anna (Rob) Bertman. Additionally, she was a locally known professional photographer for over four decades. Even while running a successful photography business, Leslie was the idyllic mother any kid could dream of. She had cookies waiting after school, helped with homework, drove the kids to activities, made costumes, planned fantastic birthday parties, and encouraged her kids’ own creativity and passions, all with impeccable style.
She was a doting “Grama” to Micah & Noah Reby and Charlie, George, & Nina Bertman, as well as “Auntie Leslie” to many next generation great-nieces and nephews. One of her biggest joys was hosting big family gatherings to celebrate holidays and milestones, three generations deep.
Leslie’s life was a testament to style, creativity, and family, including friends that felt like family that she collected along the way. She is a part of many people’s most treasured memories, and her memory is a blessing to all who met her.
Funeral service Friday, December 6th, 1:30 PM at Congregation Temple Israel, #1 Rabbi Alvan D. Rubin Drive (Ladue at Spoede Roads). No visitation prior to service. Private family interment.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Leslie’s memory may be made to Siteman Cancer Center or Temple Israel
