Edward T. Leadbetter, Jr. loving husband and father, 83 years old from Whitman, Ma passed away on November 13, 2017 at home under hospice care with his loving family around him.
Born in Cohasset, Ma January 12, 1934, son of Edward T. Leadbetter and Ann H. Magoun.
Eddie joined the Air Force in 1952. Upon his return he worked for Texaco. Then after a few years he purchased his own gas station in Whitman, South Ave Motor, Inc, which he owned for 50+ years.
Eddie was an active member of the Mason Puritan Lodge in East Bridgewater for the past 55 years. Eddie’s family was involved with the breeding and raising of Collies throughout his life. His pride and joy were his beloved Collies; Rob, Max and Greggie. Eddie used to say “It’s in our hearts that we find the Collies” He was Mayflower Society Member and genealogist. Eddie was a member of Pembroke and Hanover Historical Societies. He shared his love of history by starting his own Facebook page South Shore Potpourri, which led to the publication of his own book, about historical stories that took place on the South Shore. Eddie liked to restore old cars and gas pumps. He was very proud to drive his Model T in various parades in Whitman, which many of his children and grandchildren enjoyed riding in the back of the car and waving to Papa’s fans. He also enjoyed building model planes and going to air shows with his family. He loved his family and would plan events, with his loving wife, that would bring the family together on Halloween, July 4th and Christmas. Eddie was often seen at the ballfields, Miss Kay’s Dance Recitals, School Concerts and various other events that involved his grandchildren. Eddie and his wife were avid Patriots fans who would attend games and collect memorabilia. They purchased their old seats from the Foxboro stadium and a piece of the goal post signed by Adam Vinatieri.
Eddie is survived by his loving wife of 27 years Donna, his children Edward & Liz Leadbetter (Whitman), Cheryl & Dana Bean (Pembroke), Brian & Brenda Leadbetter (Hanson), David Leadbetter (Whitman), Gail Sharp & Brian Stephenson (Pembroke), Kevin & Danielle Leadbetter (Whitman), Jennifer Torrey & David Nobrega (New Bedford), Suzanne & Scott Smith (Taunton) and Katherine and Andrew Stevenson (Pembroke), his sisters Jill Preble and Susan Tardie. He is predeceased by his sister Maryann Keefe. He is survived by 20 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Visiting Hours will be held on Sunday November 19, 2017 from 2-6pm in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Route 58 Rotary) Whitman, Ma. Funeral will be held on Monday November 20, 2017 at 11am in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel. Burial will take place at the Center Cemetery in Pembroke, Ma.