Shrewsbury – Lawrence R. Leonard, of Shrewsbury, MA passed away on Thursday, May 9th, 2024 after a brief illness, surrounded by his family.
Mr. Leonard was born and raised in Worcester, MA where he attended South High and graduated in 1969. He attended Fitchburg State College, where he studied Industrial Arts and met his wife, Mary. They married in 1973, had four beautiful children, and loved each other deeply for more than 50 years. He was a loving and affectionate father who taught his children the meaning of hard work, loyalty, generosity, the power of humor, and to always say, “I love you.”
He enjoyed a long career as a teacher of Industrial Arts for both day and night classes, which provided him the opportunity to share his knowledge with young people and foster an appreciation for working with their hands. He continued his trade as a machinist and a self-taught tinsmith, selling his creations and sharing his knowledge at fairs and gatherings with other craftsmen and enthusiasts.
Mr. Leonard was a lifetime member of The Boy Scouts of America: Mohegan Council, and was an avid Revolutionary War history buff, participating in reenactments across New England and the east coast, and as a period dancer at the Wayside Inn. He was also a member of the Sudbury Minutemen. His love of history can be measured by the books he kept, the knowledge he shared, and the lives of those he touched throughout his travels.
He is predeceased by his parents, Robert and Rose Leonard, and his brother, Bobby Leonard. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary, their four children and spouses: Matthew Leonard, Luke & Betty Leonard, Kate & Bob Ferrie, and Nathaniel & Lauren Leonard, six grandchildren: Cassie, Kevin, Sean, Sadie, Harrison, and Calvin, siblings: Helen & Paul Poirier and Staci Leonard & Beth Barkley, his nephew: Joe & Nicole Poirier, his aunt: Carmella Fanning, and a large extended family.
Mr. Leonard will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Visitation will be held at Britton Funeral Home, 648 Main Street, Shrewsbury on Monday May 13th from 4-8pm, all are welcome. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Anne’s Church,130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury on Tuesday May 14th at 10am. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Mr. Leonard’s name to the Mohegan Council, BSA or to your favorite charity.
If you cannot attend the Mass, please join us virtually at: TribuCast Live Stream
