Elizabeth “Lily” Leckie, 81, of Belford, peacefully passed away Aug. 25 at home with her family by her side.
Lily was born Oct. 25, 1937, in Johnstone, Scotland, a daughter of the late Elizabeth and Harold Mc Crystal. She married her childhood sweetheart, James Leckie, and moved to America in 1961. Upon arriving in America, Lily got a job as an assistant buyer for J.C. Penney Company in New York City and they lived in Valley Stream, New York until 1973. After having their children, they decided to settle in Belford.
Lily was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking. Her passion in life was to take care of everyone. Her world was her family, especially her grandchildren. Her fondness for children prompted her to open a daycare in her home in the 1980s until 2002. Many of the children she watched still keep in touch with her and still call her “Nana Lily.”
Lily was predeceased by her beloved husband of 44 years, James Leckie, in 2002. She was also predeceased by her sister Sarah Quinn.
Lily is survived by her devoted children: her son Jamie Leckie of Belford and her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Tommy Maino of Highlands. Lily also leaves behind a sister, Frances Boyce, and brother Robert Mc Crystal, both of Scotland, along with three adoring grandchildren, Alyssa, Elizabeth and Andrew.
Friends and relatives may pay their respects Monday, Sept. 2 from 3-6 p.m. and again Tuesday, Sept. 3 from 10-11 a.m., immediately followed by the funeral service at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, 153 Church St., Belford. The burial and committal will follow at Bayview Cemetery.
