Julia A. H. Leigh's Obituary
Julia Anne Hoffman Leigh, passed on to heaven, July 12, 2020, just shy of 92 years old.
She was born in Ft. Myers and lived on the same block all of her life except when she attended college in Tallahassee, Florida.
She joins her husband of 67 years, the love of her life, Wendell H. Leigh, who predeceased her by 3 months. Julia leaves behind her loving family: children – Debra Leigh, Tim Leigh (Lorie), Melody Melvin (Jack), and Twyla Leigh; grandchildren – Harmony Melvin Nunley (Robby), Keith Barefoot (Jen), Benjamin Melvin (Amanda), Joel Garland, Nate Garland and Katie Leigh; great grandchildren – Isabella Melvin, Max Nunley, Rex Nunley, Lili Barefoot, Fox Nunley and Phoenix Nunley; and brother Jerome Hoffman (Norma).
Preceded in death by parents - Edith Keith and M. Rex Hoffman; and brothers – Bobby, Donny, Bert and Seth Hoffman.
Julia graduated from Fort Myers Senior High School (Class of 1946) and through many challenges, earned her Bachelors’ Degree in Social Work from Florida State University, originally Florida College for Women (Class of 1950). She later achieved a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Her 30-year career focused on helping people, whether as a social worker for the State of Florida, teaching 2nd graders, or serving as a visiting teacher providing services to families of at-risk children in specialized school reading programs.
Assuring that her daughters completed a college education, Julia was a supporter of women having advanced educations and being self-sufficient. She was a great connector of resources and was incredibly generous helping many people improve their lives and future opportunities.
In her retirement, she was a certified Master Gardener providing many workshops to community groups on topics such as “Backyard Citrus” and “Adding Color to the Landscape.”
Julia was a survivor. Through much prayer and faith, she beat breast cancer and overcame major, life changing injuries occurring in a potentially fatal car accident.
Julia and Wendell made a great team. They were devoted to family, enjoyed family celebrations, home projects, and travel when they were able.
Julia was grateful to all who assisted with her home healthcare and life needs. Her memory will live on through the love, faith and laughter of family and friends. A private graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2020.
For public posting of obituary and memorial photos go to:
fortmyersmemorial.com
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