Mary Wigginton Leonard

Mary Wigginton Leonard, 73, of Salisbury, North Carolina, passed away Monday, September 25, 2023, at her home. Born February 17, 1950, in Salisbury, Mary grew up on the campus of Catawba College, where her father, the late Marvin D. Wigginton, served as Dean of Music. Her mother, the late Eilyne Wigginton, worked for Shuford and Caddell. Mary always held a special bond with her "Catawba" family. On December 29, 1970 Mary wed her high-school sweetheart, George William "Bill" Leonard Jr.. The couple lived in Salisbury, raising their children Nathaniel "Nate" Leonard and Natalie (Leonard) Hill. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Bill. Mary spent her life caring for others. A kind and gentle soul, Mary was a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She worked as a preschool teacher for many years but enjoyed teaching ESLA the most. She was a committed volunteer, serving the hospital for decades, Meals on Wheels, and many other local missions. When her parents became elderly, Mary cared for them, providing them with the highest quality of life possible. Mary loved working in her yard, cultivating flowers and plants of all varieties, and spending time with her eight grandchildren. She was a dedicated friend, a good listener, and a calming presence. She loved her Lord, Jesus, and faithfully attended First Baptist Church of Salisbury, where she was involved in various ministries. Her confidence in the Lord never wavered, even after her terminal diagnosis. Her faith gave her a peace that endured through death into everlasting life. Those remaining to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy are her son, Nate Leonard (Suellen) of Morehead City; daughter, Natalie Hill (Drew) of Greensboro; sister, Judy (Richard) Bowen of Wilmington, DE; grandchildren Pierce Leonard, Honey Hill, Creed Leonard, Hutch Hill, Selwyn Leonard, Macy Heart Hill, Hobson and Huddle Hill; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Her life and her God will be celebrated at First Baptist Church of Salisbury on Saturday, October 14, at 1 p.m. with Rev. Nate Leonard and Rev. Brian Farmer officiating. In the spirit of Mary, the family requests you wear colorful clothing to the memorial. The family will speak to friends following the service in the church sanctuary. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made in Mary's memory to First Baptist Church, 223 N. Fulton St., Salisbury, NC 28144. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Leonard family. Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Mary Wigginton Leonard

February 17, 1950 - September 25, 2023