Brainerd, Leona Elaine

Leona Brainerd

Leona Elaine Leiderbach Brainerd, 92, of Fairport passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024. She was born in Hammondsport, NY, on March 23, 1932, to Leo and Mary (Ellenberger) Leiderbach. She graduated from Hammondsport High School in 1950 and Arnot Ogden School of Nursing in 1953. Her R.N. career took her from New York to Florida and back, practicing in a variety of settings including Strong Memorial Hospital, Kodak, and school nursing.

In her early thirties, Leona decided to take a boating class. Little did she know that this would change the course of her life. Also in the class was a kind-hearted man named Richard Brainerd, who had built his own sailboat and was looking for a sailing companion. Richard courted Leona ashore and afloat. They married on July 23, 1966. Mission accomplished!

They built a home and raised their family in Fairport, New York. Leona was a member of Delphian Study Club. She lent a helping hand wherever needed and volunteered in her children’s classrooms. She delighted in time spent with family and friends. Summer adventures included sailing the Thousand Islands, swimming in Keuka Lake, and countless picnics! Together, Leona and Richard shared 56 beautiful years.

Leona personified love, gentleness, generosity, humility, commitment, dignity, patience, loyalty, and quiet strength. She was quite possibly the kindest person who has ever graced this earth. We are all so grateful to have loved, and been loved by her.

Leona is survived by her children Lori (Peter) DeLoe and Rich (Heather) Brainerd, five cherished grandchildren, her dear sister Kay Leiderbach, and treasured family and friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard and her elder sister Millie.

Calling Hours will be held at 1 PM, with a Memorial Service at 2 PM, on Sunday, October 13^th at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, 7501 Pittsford-Palmyra Road, Fairport.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local blood bank or the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY at abm.org.

Music filled Leona’s heart and home. Now the hills of Heaven are alive with the sound of music.