Katherine Anne (Eaton) Leonard

Katherine Anne (Eaton) Leonard

HAMMONDSPORT – Katherine Anne Leonard (née Eaton) passed away surrounded by her family on Monday, February 5, 2024, age 77, at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester NY.

Kathy was born April 7, 1946 in Williamsport, PA to John William Eaton II and Alice Ellen Eaton (née Reed).  She was a graduate of Wellsboro Area High School class of 1964.  She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Russell Sage College NY and her Master of Science in Nursing from The Pennsylvania State University.  Katherine served as a nurse for over 56 years in both the hospital and clinical settings, as a professor of clinical nursing, and as a school nurse for her local school districts.

Kathy is predeceased by her parents and survived by her husband of 56 years, William J. Leonard of Hammondsport NY, as well as her daughters Karen M. and Ann E. Leonard of Carlisle PA and San Diego CA; son John P. Leonard (Laurel) and grandsons, Geoffrey W. and Samuel E., of Morrisville PA.  She is also survived by her brother John W. Eaton III (Diane) of Wellsboro, PA.

As a lifelong Girl Scout, Kathy enjoyed many outdoor activities, including sailing on Lake Keuka, cross-county skiing, and visiting National Parks.  She was accomplished in knitting, sewing, quilting and loved her piano and music.  She had a deep faith in God and an unquenchable call to service.  Throughout her life she devoted her time, skill, and talents to her communities as an American Red Cross swimming and lifeguarding instructor, scout leader, and tireless volunteer to multiple organizations and institutions.  She strove always to be a good friend and neighbor, devoted wife, loving sister, mother, cousin, dog mom, and grandmother.  She was a rock for many people, giving strength and support to those in need, and comfort with her work in pet therapy.

A memorial service for Katherine Anne will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Wellsboro, PA on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 12 PM (luncheon to follow).

In lieu of flowers, please send denotations in Katherine’s name to either St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, or Therapy Dogs International, or a nursing or volunteer organization of your choice.

The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., HAMMONDSPORT is honored to assist Katherine’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Katherine are welcome below in the comment section or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.