Ann Marie Leighton

Ann Marie Leighton, Nancy, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on June 17, 2025.

Nancy was born on July 17 in Dunmore, PA to the late Thomas and Teresa Gilmartin Dougherty.

She was also predeceased by her husband, John (Jack) C. Leighton; her brother, Thomas; and her best friend and youngest son, Patrick, whom she cared for with special love.

Nancy was a graduate of St. Paul's High School in Scranton and Lackawanna Business School. She started her career in the library at the University of Scranton, where she met the love of her life, Jack. They created a beautiful family, sharing 45 years of marriage. She was a loving wife, mom, granny, and most recently, grammy to her two great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her loving daughter and caretaker, Patti (Bob Potenza), her sons; John (Ellie), Thomas (Patty), Brian (Maura), grandchildren Kelly (Tim Smith), Thomas (Maureen), Courtney (Tom Coyle), Lauren, Ashley, Brian Jr, Jaclyn and great-grandchildren Keegan Smith and Reece Leighton. She is also survived by her sister, Sr. Thomas Mary Dougherty, IHM.

Her kind and loving nature meant that all their friends, their children's friends, and teammates felt more than welcome in their home, whether it be for delicious meals, snacks, or a few libations. The hospitality that Jack and Nancy provided to so many has created a lifetime of special memories, which are still talked about today. She loved to cook and entertain, hosting Sunday dinners and many Super Bowl parties. Nancy was a big sports fan, attending her children's games throughout high school and college. She loved vacationing with her family on their annual trips to the Jersey Shore. Her children included her in many of their activities, especially Notre Dame parties and trips to see her beloved Irish play in South Bend, Indiana. She made many friends wherever she went and always had a beautiful smile on her face. Nancy was also an active volunteer, starting with her involvement with St. Therese's Little League, which ultimately led to many lifelong friendships. She was a past president of St Therese's Grade School Guild.

Extremely proud of her Irish Heritage, she was honored and cherished the memory of serving as the Grand Marshal of the Wilkes-Barre St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2009. She was a faithful member of St. Therese's Parish in Wilkes-Barre until its closing, and more recently, a member of the Church of St. Nicholas-St. Mary.

Nancy's family is grateful to Hospice of Sacred Heart, who provided special care during the last week of her life. John, Tom, and Brian want to thank their sister, Patti, who did tremendous service, providing full-time love, care, and comfort to their mom throughout the years, especially the last three years.

Nancy had a remarkable life, leaving her family with many great memories that we will cherish and talk about for the rest of our lives. We were truly blessed.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph's Center, 201O Adams Ave, Scranton, PA 18509; Sisters of IHM, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18509; Osterhout Library, 71 S Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 or Coffee Inclusive, 350 Kennedy Blvd., Suite 12, Pittston, PA. 18640

Celebration of Nancy's life takes place in the Church of St. Nicholas-St. Mary, 226 S. Washington St, Wilkes-Barre. Visitation is scheduled for 4 to 7 PM on Sunday, June 22, 2025. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1O AM on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Share memories and condolences with Nancy's family, and view a live stream of the Funeral Mass at mjmclaughlin.com