Obituary
Leigh H. Williams died peacefully at his home in Vine Valley on January 11th, 2022. just a few weeks before his 78th birthday. A passionate outdoorsman, he spent a lifetime enjoying the fishing and hunting opportunities the region has to offer. He volunteered seemingly endless hours throughout his life to organizations such as Kiwanis, The Middlesex Conservation Club, SCOPE, The Middlesex Heritage Group and the Republican Party.
Leigh was proud to be a busy Hunters Safety Instructor for New York State and was instrumental in starting the New York State High School Clay Target League. He was personally to thank for the State boat launch and upgrades in Vine Valley.
Many children caught their first fish or experienced their first day out hunting because of his time spent with mentoring DEC youth programs.
His ongoing commitment to outdoor pursuits and education led to his induction into the New York State Outdoor Hall of Fame in 2020, which was an unexpected but tremendous honor.
Growing up on a farm in Potter with brothers Jay and Ross and graduating from Middlesex Valley School in 1962, he went on to study Business at Morrisville where he met his future wife, Bonnie. They purchased an abandoned farm on Reed Corners Road and shortly afterwards had their son, Cory. They spent 33 years together enjoying a rural lifestyle, 30 of which Leigh spent working for Rochester Gas and Electric in Canandaigua. He finished his career in 1994, along side a great team of friends, as District Manager.
Shortly after retirement, Leigh built a permanent home adjacent to the cottage his grandparents had built in 1931 overlooking Canandaigua Lake. Meeting up with friends most mornings for breakfast was an important part of his daily routine, while always making people feel welcome to stop by “the cottage” for a swim or an evening barbecue to watch the sunset.
His company will be missed by his son Cory and brother Ross, as well as countless relatives and friends scattered around the country.
An outdoor service will be held this upcoming summer, and all those who wish to attend are welcome to email Cory for details in the Spring at vinevalley@fastmail.com
Memorial contributions can be made to: Middlesex Valley Volunteer Ambulance, 817 Route 245, Middlesex, NY 14507; or Middlesex Conservation Club, PO Box 67, Rushville, NY 14544.