Obituary of Athena E. Leonard

Athena Leonard passed away peacefully in her home on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. She was 87 years young.

Athena was born on October 2, 1938, to Robert and Athena Buchanan in Jersey City, NJ. She was raised in the Indian Lake section of Denville alongside her brothers, Harold and Nicholas, and formed deep roots in the community she would cherish throughout her life. From a young age, Athena possessed a remarkable energy and adoration for athletics. Ever since grade school, she was constantly on the move. While attending Morris Hills High School, she participated in all sporting events she could, developing a lifelong passion for physical activity. She graduated as the first ever graduating class in 1956. Her enthusiasm for sports and activates not only kept her moving but also led her to meeting her best friend and future husband, John (Jack) Leonard. They met through mutual friends sharing a love of horses. Athena remained active as an adult, through numerous clubs and was rarely found sitting still. She bowling throughout her life for fun, for Riverview School, and Denville Methodist Church, a pastime that she enjoyed up until last week!

Athena and Jack shared a beautiful life together, creating countless memories while building a family and exploring the country, side by side. They enjoyed traveling across the United States in their many RVs as a family, embracing the adventure of the open road and discovering the beauty of America's landscapes. Their travels provided them with treasured experiences and stories that would be shared for years to come. Athena was also a hard worker, having been a Legal Secretary for Warner Lambert, and then Pfizer in Morris Plains.

The couple settled in the Cedar Lake section of Denville, where they raised their children with unwavering support and devotion, and she was endearingly nicknamed “Sis”. Athena was deeply involved in the Cedar Lake community, volunteering her time whenever she could, attending local events, and serving as an active member of the Riverview PTA. She believed strongly in supporting her community and helping others, a commitment that remained a defining part of her life.

Athena was also the longest-standing member of Denville United Methodist Church, where her faith and service touched countless lives. She was a dedicated member of the United Women of Faith, participating in the quilting circle and helping create prayer shawls that brought comfort and support to fellow parishioners. Her charitable spirit extended to her membership in the Order of the Eastern Star, Harding Chapter, as a Past Matron where she continued her lifelong commitment to volunteering and community service. She a devoted member of the Denville Senior Citizens, sharing laughter and friendship with many dear companions.

Above all else, nothing beat her devotion to her family. She was the heart of her family, a true matriarch whose wisdom, strength, and unconditional love served as a guiding light for generations. Nothing brought her greater joy than being surrounded by those she cared for. When she became a “Granny”, her happiness only grew. Athena proudly embraced her role as her grandchildren's number one cheerleader, faithfully attending sporting events and celebrations, offering encouragement, support, and endless love from the sidelines.

Athena will be remembered for her boundless energy, beautiful smile, unwavering faith, and devotion to her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she nurtured, and the love she so freely gave. Although we are deeply saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved husband, Jack, for their anniversary on June 16th; her parents, Athena and Robert Buchanan; and her brothers, Harold and Nicholas Buchanan.

Athena is survived by her children, Wayne M. Leonard (Dawn) and Athena Hopler (Don); her grandchildren, Zachary Hopler, Cole Hopler, Nicole Leonard and Justin Leonard; her faithful pup, Dakota; her life-long friend, Jerry Suk; her nieces, Kelly Gayer and Kerry Buchanan; as well as a wealth of extended family, friends, and neighbors who will remember her fondly.

If you would like to continue Athena’s legacy in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Denville United Methodist Church. Memorial Donations can be made via this link.

Hours of memorial visitation for Athena will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 5 to 8 PM, with a funeral service to be held at 6:30 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. Friends and relatives are encouraged to come as you are to celebrate the life of this incredible woman! Athena wanted this to be a celebration so come in colors and comfortable! Please leave a condolence, add a gesture, or share your favorite memory of Athena here to continue to celebrate her phenomenal life.