Michael Minter Leslie, a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Rye, N.Y., on March 6, 2024. He was 69.
Born on July 16, 1954, he was the second youngest of Henry and Helen Leslie’s seven children.
He grew up in Larchmont, N.Y., and attended Mamaroneck and Iona Prep high schools, before graduating from Marietta College in Ohio. He went on to pursue a successful career in textiles, working for Celanese, Springs Industries, and Burlington Industries. He later reinvented himself and became a design consultant for a division of Home Depot.
He met his wife Cheryl on a northbound Metro-North train from Manhattan. They married in 1981 and bought a house in Rye ten years later, just before they welcomed their first child.
Mike Leslie loved living in Rye – strolling through town and Rye Town Park and stopping at Longford’s for ice cream. Hix Park was the ideal neighborhood for him, according to his wife. “It often took Mike a long time to get from the driveway to the front door, because he would invariably strike up conversations with neighbors walking by.”
For everyone around him, Mike Leslie had a smile on his face and a joke or story to tell, especially about his siblings and their youthful adventures that became family lore.
He was a dedicated husband and father. From traveling the world with his wife early in their marriage, to taking pride in his children’s achievements, to celebrating the birth of his first grandchild and his daughter’s wedding, Mike prized time with his family above everything else. He kept every card and note from his wife and children, filling three drawers of his nightstand to the brim.
He also took immense pleasure in spending time with his closest friend group and siblings. He loved nothing more than good conversation, whether on the golf course or over a good glass of wine. He had an amazing ability to make those around him feel welcomed and loved.
Mike Leslie was quick to offer a helping hand to anyone in need, even with the smallest task. There was never a doubt he’d show up with a ready smile, word of wisdom, or simple companionship,
whatever the situation required. His affability and warmth will be remembered by all.
He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Cheryl; his chil- dren Colin (Claire) and Carine (Anthony); and a grandchild, Graham. He is also survived by his six siblings: Patricia Finneran, Barbara Reilly, Stephen Leslie, Thomas Leslie, Scott Leslie, and Kathleen English; and 16 nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass was held March 13 at Church of the Resurrection.
