James C. "Jim" Leach

On July 9, 2015, James C. Leach, 83, succumbed to a short illness with the same dignity and grace in which he lived his life. He was a both a gentleman and a gentle man. Born in Wichita, KS, to Alfred Q. Leach and Helen Kerwin Leach, Jim graduated in 1950 from North High School. He also attended both Friends University and Wichita State University. He married Jo Walker in 1954 and they relocated to Albuquerque in 1957. He worked for the City of Albuquerque and retired after 30 years of service from their Environmental Health Department. Jim belonged to the Wichita North Star Masonic Lodge #168 and the Scottish Rite. He was a member of numerous choirs and choruses and his beautiful baritone voice held the attention of all at multiple weddings and funerals. He loved excellent music, a healthy garden, and reading a good book, but, most of all, he loved his family. Jim was preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jo; his son, Lance K. Leach and his wife, Susan, of Albuquerque, and their son, Drew, of Atlanta, GA; and his son, Kevin J. Leach, of Carlsbad, CA. No services will be scheduled and, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's name to the Presbyterian Hospice Program, c/o Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation, PO Box 26666, Albuquerque, NM, 87125. The family extends gratitude and appreciation to his physicians, the staff of Presbyterian Hospital, and the staff at the Presbyterian Kaseman Hospice Unit for their excellent care and support.