Alice Elliott (Rinehart) Leddy

Alice Elliott Leddy (nee Rinehart) died peacefully on Feb. 2, 2023, in the presence of loving family, 6 weeks short of her 91st birthday.  Predeceased by sisters Adele Pratt and Carol Lynnes.  She is survived by her spouse of 66 yrs, John Leddy, MD; children Mark Leddy (Mindy), Sarah Leddy, MD (Blake Held), Jeffrey Leddy (Lisa); grandchildren Cameron Held, Emily Held, Jaz Leddy, Ember Leddy; devoted sister Eileen Bruning (Fred); many beloved nieces and nephews.

Alice was born in NYC, but grew up in Westfield, NJ.  After high school she attended New Jersey College for Women (2 yrs.) after which Alice received an RN degree with honor from Columbia-Presbyterian School of Nursing in NYC. Her nursing career continued (3 yrs.) at Children’s Hospital in Boston where, after a challenging year caring for post-polio Iron Lung patients, she became head nurse at the Adolescent Unit.  She and John married in 1956. As a young mom of 3, Alice attended U of R School of Nursing for her NP degree, then joined Panorama Pediatrics, working for 25 years.  As a long-time member of First Unitarian Church in Rochester, Alice served several years as a volunteer teaching assistant at school 22 in the city.

Alice was an avid outdoors woman and nature lover.  With family at the Adirondack cabin, she enjoyed canoeing, hiking, swimming, and XC skiing.  She also loved travel.  With John she explored Italy, Alaska, 14 national parks, the Canadian Rockies and Maritimes; and, with other family, Costa Rica and her favorite, the Galapagos.  Other passions included knitting, quilting, cooking, and gardening.

Alice was beloved throughout the extended family for her selfless, kind, and gentle nature, eagerly embracing new family and friends.  Her warm smile and sparkling eyes often belied her inner strength and determination. Even in her final months her response to every physical challenge was: “I’ll try.”

A memorial service will be held at a later date.  Donations may be sent to one of her favorite charities:  Planned Parenthood, United Way, Special Olympics, or the Wild Center in Tupper Lake, NY.

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