James Leahy

James (Jim) Leahy of Sedona, Arizona passed away on Thursday, July 28, 2022, at the age of 82.  Jim died peacefully at home with his beloved wife of 53 years, Mariann, at his side. 

 

Jim was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 22, 1940 to Irish immigrant parents. He received a B.A. in History and Social Science from St. Mary's College, Winona, Minnesota, completed his Masters in Education in History, and was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship.  Early in his career he worked as a Social Studies Supervisor and State Accreditation Evaluator for the Illinois State Office of Education, and as an American History teacher at St. Francis High School in Wheaton, Illinois, where he met his wife Mariann.  Jim went on to teach American History for over 25 years at Oak Park-River Forest High School, in Oak Park, Illinois.  In retirement, Jim enjoyed living in Sedona, Arizona.  He was an avid reader and member of the Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR).  He immersed himself in the history of the Southwest  through books and the local archaeology club, and loved hiking with his wife in the Coconino National Forest surrounded by the red rocks. 

 

He is survived by his wife Mariann; children Michael (Carol Davit) and Maureen (William Johnson); grandson Jamie and step-grandson Daniel.  Jim was a loving husband, friend, and devoted family man.  He instilled a love for nature and the great outdoors in his children, and was very proud that both Michael and Maureen pursued careers that foster these passions.   

 

The immediate family will be celebrating Jim's life in private.  The family wishes you take time to read a good book, or go for a walk in nature, or plant a tree in remembrance of Jim.