Elizabeth “Betty” Leonard, 96, formerly of the Weston Field section of Scranton, PA, died Thursday, March 19, 2026 at the Mid-Valley Health Care Center, Peckville, PA. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Leonard on January 30, 2010.

Born January 2, 1930 in Scranton, PA, she was the daughter of the late George and Mabel Stevens Housley.

Betty was a graduate of Scranton Schools and worked in housekeeping at several local group homes. She was an active member of the Court Street United Methodist Church, Scranton, and enjoyed playing cards and cooking for family and friends. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially daily visits with her granddaughter. Betty was fond of animals, especially dogs.

She will be remembered as an amazing storyteller who had a terrific memory. She would amuse both her family and the nursing home staff with fond memories of her childhood in Scranton.

The family would like to thank Dr. Nicholas Dodge as well as the nurses and staff at The Gardens of Green Ridge, Mid-Valley Health Care Center and most recently hospice from Home Health Care Professionals for their kind and compassionate care to Betty.

She is survived by her two grandchildren: Tracy Zaleski and husband, Christopher of Eynon, PA, and Christopher Leonard of Scranton, PA; a great-granddaughter: Abbie Mae Zaleski; two sister’s-in-law: Joan Gavin of Scranton, PA, and Martha Murazzi and husband, John of Taylor, PA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by three children: Kenneth, Steven and Betty Jean Leonard; and a daughter-in-law: Rachel Leonard.

A visitation will be held Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at the Court Street United Methodist Church, 816 Court Street, Scranton, PA, with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Eric Luczak, pastor. Interment will be private.

Arrangements by Carmine J. & Louis C. Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Carbondale, PA

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to United Cerebral Palsy of Northeastern Pennsylvania. https://ucpnepaorg.ddock.gives/?showBg=