Obituary of Leona A. Flynn

Leona A. Flynn, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed this world on May 6, 2026, with her family by her side.

Born on July 14, 1938, Leona was the eldest daughter of Bernard J. and Adele M. Donnelly. Raised in Troy, she attended St. Paul’s School and graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1957. She later earned her degree at Maria College after raising her three children.

Leona shared a beautiful life and marriage with her devoted husband, Jim. The couple would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in October. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, love, and adventure. Their honeymoon to Hawaii in 1961 sparked a lifelong love of travel, and they returned to the islands many times throughout the years. They enjoyed many family vacations to the Jersey shore and Cape Cod, as well as camping in the Adirondacks.

Leona had an infectious energy and a true passion for life. She loved dancing, fitness, golf, travel, and always stayed active. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family and friends.

A devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Victory Church, Leona lived her life with deep faith and compassion. Leona started her career with New York State upon graduation from high school. Then, she worked for Dr. Ralph Tannenbaum, optometrist, for 15 years. She returned and retired from New York State after 20 years of service in 2002.

In addition to her loving husband James, Leona is survived by her children: James Flynn (Renan) of Ohio, Karen Wolfe (Gary) of Troy, and Daniel Flynn (Debra) of Maryland. She was the proud and loving nanny of Devin Wolfe, Sydney Frese (Josh), Adam Wolfe, Madison Flynn, Connor Flynn, and Shannon Flynn. She is also survived by her siblings: Elaine Reeves, Marie Lynn Mohan (Robert), Bernadette Quackenbush (Scott), Jeanette Kavanaugh (Steve), and William Donnelly (Kim), as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Van Rensselaer Manor and the team in unit A1 for their kindness and compassion.

Services will be held on Tuesday, May 12 at Our Lady of Victory Church in Troy. Visitation is from 10am to 12pm followed by a Eulogy at noon and mass at 12:15. Burial immediately following at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Troy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York. Donations can be made online: https://www.alz.org/northeasternny?form=FUNDFDTGURQ

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the John J. Sanvidge Funeral Home, Inc., 565 Fourth Avenue, Troy, NY 12182 

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