Suzanne Miller Leonard, formerly of Bonita Springs, FL, South Yarmouth, MA, and Vernon, CT, passed away peacefully on August 23rd in Falmouth, MA, surrounded by her loving family. She had been a resident of Atria Wood Briar Park in Falmouth for the past three years, where she received exceptional care and was affectionately known as the “Princess.” Born on July 5th, 1932, Suzanne was the youngest of three children to the late William J. and Florence Miller.
Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Suzanne attended St. Mary’s Seminary and Rosary Hill College. She was an avid sports enthusiast, enjoying skiing, skating, and swimming, but it was bowling that truly captured her heart. She competed in numerous tournament leagues, a passion she inherited from her father, who owned three bowling alleys in Buffalo.
Suzanne met the love of her life, Don, while working at her father’s lakefront restaurant, Bill Miller’s Riviera, on Lake Erie. Don was on leave from the Merchant Marines, and their connection was immediate. They married on February 7th, 1953, and together they raised six children.
Suzanne inherited her mother’s love for gardening and landscaping, creating beautiful gardens wherever she lived. In South Yarmouth, MA, she was an active member of the garden club, and her home was frequently featured on garden tours, winning first place one year. After moving to Bonita Springs, FL, she joined the Sandpipers and enjoyed playing in several card groups. Suzanne and Don cherished their community of friends, always embracing life with enthusiasm. Their love for the beach and socializing made them the life of every party. Suzanne will be dearly missed by her many friends.
In addition to her parents, Suzanne was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald M. Leonard, her son, Donald M. Leonard Jr., and her grandson, Bryan Leonard. She is survived by her children: Michele Lynch (John) of Falmouth, MA; Cynthia Prete (Paul) of Cromwell, CT; Douglas Leonard of Bonita Springs, FL; Lori Leonard of Buffalo, NY; Janet Nichols (Christopher) of Norwell, MA; and daughter-in-law Linda Leonard of South Windsor, CT. Suzanne also leaves behind 12 cherished grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
Suzanne was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren, finding joy in each of their accomplishments. Her ashes will be interred at the National Cemetery in Bourne, MA, alongside her beloved Don. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers donations in Sue's name can be made to Beacon Hospice, 1060 Falmouth Road Suite A, Hyannis, MA 02601.