NEW BEDFORD — Kathleen (Ainsley) Leach, of New Bedford, entered into rest on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, after an extended illness. She was the wife of the late James Leach who passed away in August 1999 after fifty years of marriage.
Born in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Florence (Elstob) Ainsley and Joseph William Ainsley who were originally from England.
A graduate of New Bedford High School, Kathleen was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II serving with the rank of Hospital Apprentice Second Class.
She was a member of the South Baptist Church and the Friendship Circle. She was also a member of the Ivy Circle. Mrs. Leach was for many years Executive Director of the New Bedford Day Nursery, a position she held most dearly.
Kathleen is survived by her beloved daughters, Susan Ainsley Leach-Gregan and her husband, Richard S. Gregan of Thomaston, Connecticut and Barbara Ann Leach of New Bedford; her dear friend and sister-in-law, Lois (Taylor) Ainsley of New Bedford; and several nieces and nephews.
She was the sister of the late Alywn Ainsley and sister-in-law of the late Elsie (Leach) Jennings and her husband Norman Jennings.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday morning, Nov. 4, from 10 to 11 a.m., prior to her memorial service at 11 in the Wilson Chapel, 479 County St., New Bedford. Please omit flowers.
Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the New Bedford Port Society, 15 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, Ma. 02740. Burial will be private in the Veterans National Cemetery in Bourne, Ma.