Lawrence Leavitt

Lawrence A. Leavitt

1942-2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lawrence (Larry) Leavitt, a resident of Longmeadow, Massachusetts. He passed on January 8, 2026, surrounded by family. Larry was born in Malden, MA. He was the son of Sadie and Oral Leavitt. He had fond memories of his childhood growing up on Pierce Street. He was a graduate of Malden High School where he played basketball on the varsity team. He was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin (B.A.), the University of Rhode Island (M.A.) and the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Ph.D.). Larry made a difference to so many in his years as a Peace Corp Volunteer in the Philippines and as a dedicated professor of sociology for fifty years at Holyoke Community College.

Larry was a wonderful and devoted husband to his wife of fifty-five years. He was a true family man, always wanting the best for his children and grandchildren. He was very proud of them all. Larry had a personality larger than life. He was a happy, jovial, selfless, thoughtful guy and the kindest man you ever met. He enjoyed talking to everyone and making people laugh. In his active years, he loved riding his bicycle and could be seen throughout Longmeadow and Enfield pedaling away. He shared his passion for biking with his beloved grandchildren and nephews. He also loved the ocean, basketball, the Celtics, the Patriots and food - boy did he love food!

In his later years, Larry ruled the world and joked from his chair in the family room. He used it as launching pad to ambulate around the house with his walker.

Larry leaves his devoted wife, Estelle, and his children, Tracy (Ed) Weagle and Lori (Jim) Wheeler. He sadly leaves behind the grandchildren he adored: Michael, Benjamin and Rebecca Weagle and Daniel and Emily Wheeler. He leaves his sister Jacqueline (Jay) Satin and Barbara (Jeff) King. He also leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces and lifelong friends. Larry's passing is a profound loss to his family and all who knew him. He will live in our memories and hearts forever.

The funeral is private for family and will be held on Monday at Sinai Memorial Park at 649 Cottage Street, Springfield, MA. Shiva will be held for family on Monday January 12th. Shiva will also be held for those who would like to pay their respects on Tuesday, January 13th and Wednesday January 14th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a service Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. at 85 Oak Hollow Drive in Longmeadow, MA.

The family would like to thank Legacy Hospice and Grateful Years Home Support for helping to care for Larry in his final months and weeks.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be made in Larry's memory to the Rabbi's Discretionary Fund at Sinai Temple 1100 Dickinson Street, Springfield MA 01108.