Edith Ann Leonis, 82

Surrounded by her loving family, Edith Ann Leonis passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 15, 2019, at the age of 82 in Newport Beach, California.

Edith was born on Dec. 17, 1936, in Detroit to Wayne Pattison and Edith McNally. She was the third of four children, Albert, Charles and Francis. Edith moved to California as a young child, where she resided for the rest of her life. It was there that she met the love of her life, John Michael Leonis, while studying at Los Angeles City College. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern California and began a career as a teacher. Later she received a special education credential and taught for the Los Angeles Unified School District.

In addition to being a devoted wife, Edith was a loving mother to her three daughters, Susan, Carolyn and Linda. She lived a full life filled with extensive travel, philanthropy, and many outdoor activities including skiing, hiking and tennis. After retirement, Edith and John spent their summers in Whitefish, enjoying long days on the lake with family and dear friends.

Edith is survived by her husband of 60 years, siblings Albert Pattison and Francis Taylor, daughters Susan Leonis-Jensen, Carolyn Niman and Linda Post, seven grandchildren, and four great-granddaughters.

Edith was a kind, humble, and caring woman who will truly be missed.

A service for Edith will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 22, at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona del Mar, California.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Edith’s memory to her favorite nonprofit organization, ARCS Foundation, focusing on boosting American leadership and aid advancement in science and technology.