Leone M. Stewart-Crawford Obituary
It is with deepest sadness that we announce Leone Stewart-Crawford left us on November 7, 2024. A lifelong resident of Gloucester, Massachusetts, she died in her own home after a short but valiant battle against pancreatic cancer. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones.
Born December 13, 1955, Leone lived a rich and passionate life and will be remembered as a kind and caring woman, beloved for her wit and upbeat demeanor. Leone was the youngest of 10, (and was always truly the baby sister) born to the late Harold and Helen (Clancy) Stewart. After graduating from Gloucester High in 1973, Leone spent some time traveling alone, boldly trekking across the US and Europe. She went on to earn a BS degree in Biology at Salem State College in 1985, earning both a degree and a lifelong passion for the subject she loved. After graduation, Leone went on to sales work for a time, including a stint at the Boston Globe, and for medical supply sales. During this time, she met her future husband, Charlie, and they fell in love after a brief courtship - a love that continues to this day. She then went on to start her own gardening business. Later in life she found deep satisfaction and pride in working as a Wedding Captain at Endicott College's Tupper Manor. Of all the hats Leone wore however, the one that perhaps fit best happened to be the one she most enjoyed wearing. She recounted often that her most rewarding work was the time she took to be a full-time caregiver to her son, Hayden. She was an exemplary mother and wife, and her love continues to be felt through her thoughtful action and encouraging words she left us with. This depth of love was something Leone was eager to spread to all those in her life with whom she shared her open heart and free spirit.
Outside of her work, Leone was an avid reader, a lover of puzzles and horror films, as well as a talented seamstress. She loved experiences that matched her outgoing energy - you'd often find her skiing or snowmobiling down a local slope, or out dancing at a concert. She took particular pride in making sure that her garden was always full of vibrant, lively blooms - she would often insist that visitors leave with a fresh cut bouquet. She lived a life she loved, and one filled with laughter and countless joys. Leone was heartfelt and remarkably easy to get along with - she was someone impossible not to love and admire. She had an indomitably positive attitude and a strong-willed mind to the very end, and she will be sorely missed by all those who were fortunate enough to have known and loved her. She will be forever remembered for her vigor for life, her mirthful laughter, and all the other quirks and delights that made Leone, Leone. We love you, Leone, and you will be missed every day.
Leone is survived by her husband of 30 years, Charlie Cushing, and their son, Hayden Cushing, as well as many siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends. She held all her friends and loved ones near and special to her, and it brought her immense comfort knowing that she had their support through it all. Your well wishes all warmed her heart and brought her joy through her battle.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 24th - contact the family at [email protected] for further information about services. In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
