Leon L. France Jr.

Leon L. France Jr., 62 of Brownville, New York passed away on September 4th, in the town of Brownville.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 13th from 5 to 8 p.m. at Hart & Bruce Funeral home. 117 N. Massey St., Watertown

A funeral service will take place on Saturday September 14th, at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Leon was born on May 19th 1962 in Fulton, New York. Leon is the son of late Leon L. and Kathryn (Flint) France Sr. Leon attended G. Ray Bodley High School in Fulton, New York. Leon then later went on to commit his life to working for Credo Community Center in 1981, where he dedicated 36 years to helping others. Throughout his career he held multiple roles, primarily as a Counselor (Level III) and property supervisor. In 1987 he earned his New York State Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor credential (CASAC). One of his greatest accomplishments and what truly made him an amazing Son, Brother, Husband, Father and Friend was his commitment to maintaining a drug and alcohol free lifestyle for the past 44 years. At year 40 he was honored by some of his closest friends and fellow supporters. This celebration was highlighted with countless kind words, memories recounted with tears of joy. These words allowed us all to see his resolve, his impact, his sheer will to never give up on his fellow man. Leon was deeply respected by his peers, fellow Credo Alumni and countless individuals he counseled through his work at Credo’s Residential Rehabilition Services for the Youth Program (Farm). He made sure to always show the youth how important Family was by bringing his own Family to Sunday meetings where he beamed with pride as he handed out chips of Sobriety to his “Boys” and reassured them life is precious and beautiful. Leon received numerous accolades, including the Marsala/Wertman Substance Abuse Counselor Award and the United Way Spirit Award.

Leon was always Committed to giving back as he held numerous roles in the Community, he was an active volunteer and served as a board member at the Credo Foundation. He was a volunteer fireman for Brownville Fire Department, Served on the Brownville Zoning Board, and as an assistant for the New York State Bow Hunters Education Programs, as well as the Henderson Triathlons.

Known for his willingness to help others, Leon was always ready to lend a hand. Whether guiding someone to the right path of life, helping someone find their passion for hunting and fishing, assisting neighbors, and handing out fresh vegetables from his garden which he was so incredibly proud of building with his wife Toni. Leon had a true passion for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing and bike riding. Leon spent countless hours over on the Airport Road, where he was an avid hunter enjoying muzzle loading, rifle and bow hunting, bartering to get the perfect hunting spot which earned him the right to be a member of the Big Buck Hunting Club since 1984.

Some of his favorite memories were made outdoors, where he loved to Golf, Fish and play sports with his son Rich. Leon was truly proud of the man his son has become. While hunting he harvested a 200- pound 9-point buck with his daughter Nicole where she followed up with her first buck a 175-pound 8-point the following week. He took true pride on “doubling down” with her, and seeking solitude together in the woods, memories that can never be erased. Nothing brought him more joy than his family. Whether he was hunting for “treasures” with his Grandaughter Kayleigh, which were just opportunities of alone time to instill life lessons. Hunting and Fishing with his Granddaughter Brooke, where they were too loud to even bring in a deer because of the snacks and giggles. Fishing with his Grandson Greyson where he finished first in his age group in the Lucky Star Fishing Tournament and making homemade bow and arrows. Watching his Granddaughter Isabella dominate the basketball court and Lacrosse field, he was truly proud of all of them and loved them deeply. He was a devoted NASCAR and New England Patriots fan and enjoyed showing off his skills while watching Jeopardy. He loved listening to country and playing his guitar and harmonica for all to hear. His humor never wavered. He always had a joke to tell. His genuine and infectious smile reminded us all to have fun along the way

Leon is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years Toni France; his son Rich White, and his companion, Hannah Guyette of Watertown, NY. His daughter Nicole Hulbert of Dexter, NY. His four precious grandchildren Kayleigh and Brooke Hulbert. Greyson and Isabella White. His loving siblings Todd and Mindy France of Fulton, NY, Carl and Stacie France of Hannibal, NY, Connie and Roy Walts of Hannibal, NY,  Debbie Pulsifer of Hannibal, NY as well as several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews all from where he grew up and created many memories with.

Leon was a man of Passion, Love and Integrity, he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. We hope you continue to carry on all you learned from him and tell stories of his life.

Donations in Leon’s Memory may be made to the Thrive Wellness and Recovery Center.

Online condolences may be shared at www.hartandbrucefh.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.