Leigh Howard Havener

Leigh Howard Havener passed away at home with his loving wife, Connie by his side, on the 23 of July at the age of 80. Leigh was born on November 19, 1943, to Howard and Lorna (Nichols) Havener. Leigh was a long-term resident of Chittenango, NY until 2017 when he and his wife moved to Leesburg, FL to enjoy year-round sunshine.

Leigh is survived by his wife, of 34 years, Connie (Ramsden) Havener, his sister Faye (Havener) Durham of Jacksonville, FL, a daughter, Jacqueline Button (David) of Chandler AZ, and two sons, Steven Havener of Londonderry, NH and Hunter Havener of Chittenango, NY, four grandchildren, Zachary and Madison Havener and Nichole Button Reed (Cameron) and Jonathan Button. He has four great grandchildren, Ava, Hazel, Lileigh and Matthew Reed, and one nephew Eric Durham (Harriett) and a great niece Taylor Durham.

Leigh worked as Shop Forman for Syracuse Supply Company for 37 years and then, Park Superintendent for Town of Sullivan Parks and Recreation for 5 years before retiring. Leigh also spent many years plowing snow for himself and others. As a passionate craftsman, Leigh created beautiful homes for his family. Leigh was an expert in fixing anything, and was always available to help others. He was a master mechanic and could repair anything from small engines to heavy equipment, and airplanes.

Leigh achieved his childhood dream of becoming a pilot in 1972. He loved the peaceful feeling of being in the air. He treasured his flying friends and they did many wonderful travels as a group. Leigh was involved in all things related to flying and maintaining the airport. He proudly taught his youngest son to fly, who has followed his father’s passion for flying.

Leigh and Connie, have spent the last 43 years together, entertaining friends and family. Their home was always open for a potluck dinner or a hand of cards; Leigh was known to often hold the winning hand! Leigh’s call to join friends for morning coffee was a regular event he enjoyed.

The family would like to thank Compassionate Care Hospice of Lake and Sumter Inc., who graciously cared for Leigh in his final days. We also want to thank the many friends and neighbors who took the time to provide a meal, send a card, run an errand, and so many other ways they cared for Leigh.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life, Sunday August 4th at 2 pm at Celebration Baptist Church, 25327 US Highway 27 Suite 209, Leesburg, FL 34748. Join the family for a reception immediately following the service. Livestream will be provided, visit:

https://www.youtube.com/live/UXUn-mNPKdw

We will honor Leigh with a Memorial service at his favorite place; Luther Airport, NK51, Saturday, September 7th at 2 pm. 2010 Hunter Lane, Chittenango, NY 13037.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Leigh’s honor to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation at https://curethekids.org/event/ride-for-kids/2024-central-new-york-ride-for-kids/. Checks may be written to Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation at 4722 Setting Sun Terrace, Syracuse, NY 13215.