Obituary of John Leeson

John R. Leeson, 86, of Nashville, TN passed away peacefully on October 19, 2018 at Abe's Garden where he resided. A West Virginia native, John spent much of his youth exploring the hills near Fairmont. He had a great fascination with the natural world and science and always enjoyed time spent in the outdoors, especially birdwatching and hiking. John was also an avid reader and particularly loved geography and maps. John attended West Virginia University where he majored in accounting. He enjoyed a long career in finance after completing his military service in the Army Alaska Signal Corps. It was at WVU where John met the love of his life, Dorothy Parrack Leeson. John and Dorothy began their married life in Seattle and later Pittsburgh, eventually settling in Woolrich, Pennsylvania where they raised their family while John worked for Piper Aircraft Corporation, serving as their treasurer. His career eventually led them to State College, PA, where they appreciated the vibrant music and arts community. John and Dorothy later retired to Black Mountain, NC and enjoyed many years at the Highland Farms retirement community. He and Dorothy were lifelong learners and took great pleasure in travelling the U.S. to participate in elder-hostels and visit many of our national parks. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, and his brother William Morgan Leeson (Lenna) of LaVale, Maryland. He is survived by his children, Marcy Rutledge (Tim) of St. Louis, Eric Leeson (Michelle) of Cincinnati, and Linda Herrell (Duke) of Nashville, his grandchildren Sarah, Matt, Evan, Garrett, Austin, Emily, Ethan & Eleanor, and great-grandson Sam. A memorial service will be at the Arthur H. Wright Funeral Home in Terra Alta on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org), Abe's Garden (abesgarden.org), or the charity of your choice.