Senate Resolution No. 2385

BY: Senator O'MARA

MOURNING the death of Leigh Williams,
distinguished citizen, devoted family man and
dedicated member of his community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Leigh Williams was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Leigh Williams, noting the
significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams of Middlesex, New York, died peacefully at
his home in Vine Valley on January 11, 2022, just a few weeks before his
78th birthday; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams grew up with his brothers Jay and Ross in
Potter, New York, and graduated from Middlesex Valley High School in
1962, before earning a degree in Business from Morrisville College where
he met his future wife, Bonnie; and

WHEREAS, The couple purchased an abandoned farm on Reed Corners Road
where they welcomed their son, Cory, and spent 33 wonderful years
together; and

WHEREAS, A United States Army Veteran, Leigh Williams worked for
Rochester Gas and Electric in Canandaigua, New York, retiring as
District Manager alongside a team of friends in 1994, after three
decades of distinguished service; and

WHEREAS, Shortly after retirement, Leigh Williams built a permanent
home adjacent to the cottage his grandparents 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; and

WHEREAS, A passionate outdoorsman, Leigh Williams spent a lifetime
enjoying the fishing and hunting opportunities of his beloved community;
he volunteered endless hours throughout his life to organizations such
as Kiwanis, The Middlesex Conservation Club, SCOPE, and The Middlesex
Heritage Group; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams was proud to be a Hunters Safety Instructor
for New York State and was instrumental in starting the New York State
High School Clay Target League in Yates County High Schools; he was also
personally responsible for the State boat launch and upgrades in Vine
Valley; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, many children caught their first fish or
experienced their first day out hunting thanks to the countless time

this extraordinary man gave to mentoring local youth through DEC
programs; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams' 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; and

WHEREAS, In addition, Leigh Williams will be honored posthumously as
Citizen of the Year on Sunday, August 7, 2022, by Middlesex, New York,
for his years of service to the community; and

WHEREAS, A man of integrity and charm who always wore a kind smile,
Leigh Williams was a hard worker who gave tirelessly and willingly of
his time and energies to his community, friends and family; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams is survived by his son, Cory; and brother,
Ross; as well as countless relatives and friends scattered around the
country; and

WHEREAS, Leigh Williams' infinite selflessness and benevolence will
shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his insight and
strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the
countless lives he touched; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Leigh Williams leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all who
were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing man; he will be
deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative
Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Leigh Williams, and to express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Leigh Williams.