Lillian B. Leonard

Lillian B. Leonard, 96, of Cumberland, RI passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026 at the Holiday Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Manville, RI. She was the beloved wife of the late Morris “Mike” Leonard. Born in Cumberland, RI she was the daughter of the late John and Hermine (Blanchette) Philbin.

Lillian is survived by her children, Michael J. Leonard, Lynn M. Risica and her husband Anthony, Patrick J. Leonard (PFD ret.) and his wife Lori, John T. Leonard and his wife Susan, and Brendan J. Leonard and his wife Christina; ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, her sister Lois Holland and brother-in-law Brian Barry. She was the sister of the late Joan “Patsy” Guisti, Paul “Timmy” Philbin, Terrence Philbin, Gerald Philbin, and Dorothy Barry. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews.

Family was at the center of Lillian’s life. The immediate and extended families were large and her greatest joy came from the frequent family gatherings over the years. In her later years, she cherished the loving relationships and time spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This was demonstrated in many ways but a family favorite was watching her boogie board at the beach with the grandchildren while in her early 80s.

Lillian graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Pawtucket, RI. She then attended the Rhode Island Hospital School of Nursing and graduated in 1951. She worked in nursing for many years at Rhode Island Hospital and Pawtucket Memorial Hospital before becoming Assistant Director of Nursing and then Director of Nursing at Cartie’s Health Center in Central Falls before retiring. Lillian’s career in nursing was marked by her devotion to the care and wellness of her patients. They were her priority while working and she always made time to chat or share a smile with a patient to make them feel cared for and to let them know that they mattered.

The family would like to express our sincerest gratitude to the staff of The Holiday for the care and compassion given to our Mom.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Saint John Vianney Church, Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI. Burial will follow in Mount Saint Mary Cemetery, Pawtucket, RI. 

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday from 8:30 – 10:20 AM, prior to the Mass, in the O’Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland, RI.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in Lillian's memory, to Alzheimer's Association RI Chapter, 245 Waterman St. Suite 306 Providence RI 02906.