Edith Leonard

CHESHIRE - Edith "Edie" Leonard, 84, passed away Thursday September 23, 2010 at the Meriden Center in Meriden.

Mrs. Leonard was born May 3, 1926 in Waterbury the daughter of the late Walter and Mary (Downs) Pierson. She was a life long Cheshire resident who worked at Cheshire Academy for 30 years until her retirement in 2000. Edie was a fun loving generous person who was friendly and spoke to everyone she met. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, Prospect V.F.W. 8075. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandson Andrew. Edie was a fabulous knitter known for her afghans and scarves, enjoyed trips to the casino, and loved "her team" the Red Sox.

Mrs. Leonard is survived by her son Robert, his wife Carol and her beloved grandson Andrew of Cheshire; her sister Mary Jane Denza of Waterbury, Marjorie Stevens of Southington; her brothers Frederick Pierson of Cheshire and Dudley Pierson, of CA; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her twin sister Ethel Johnson and her brothers John, Charles and Lester.

Edie's family wants to send special thanks to all the staff at Mid State Hospital, Elim Park, Gaylord Hospital and Meriden Center who provided outstanding care to her for the past year.

Arrangements - Funeral services will be held on Monday September 27, 2010 at 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Cheshire, 111 Church Drive. Burial will follow in Cheshire Hillside Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 S. Main St. Memorial contributions may be made to Cheshire Animal Shelter, 500 Highland Ave., Cheshire, CT 06410 or to American Lung Assoc. of CT, 45 Ash St., East Hartford, CT 06108-3272.