Barbara Leconte
Age - 90
December 1, 2023
Emerald Isle- Barbara Agnes Leconte, 90, passed away November 30, 2023 at her home with her family by her side. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at St. Mildred Catholic Church in Swansboro, NC with Father Dave Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Seaside Memorial Park in Swansboro, NC. The family will receive friends half hour before the service at the church. Barbara Agnes Leconte (Hunt) was born on January 20, 1933 in Boston, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Helen Cronin of New Bedford, MA. Barbara was raised in Acushnet, MA by Ralph and Genevieve Hunt. She attended school in New Bedford, where she met her future husband, Octave (Gus) Leconte. Barbara and Gus were married on August 27, 1951. They were married for 67 years, until Gus' passing in January 2019. Barbara was the loving mother of five daughters, Gin, Barb, Donna, Di, and Deb, fondly referred to as the Fab Five. In 1964, the family moved to Whippany, NJ from Lakeville, MA. Job relocations then took Gus and Barbara to PA, back to NJ, NH, and MI, while always having a second home in New England. In 1987, they settled on Emerald Isle, NC. Over the years in addition to being a full-time homemaker, Barbara worked part-time as a doctor's office assistance and also a waitress. Mostly, her devotion was to her family. Family and friends always enjoyed her delicious meals and desserts. Growing up, her daughters never knew of store-bought cookies, cakes, and pies. Everything was made "from scratch, with love. " Barbara enjoyed reading, playing bridge, cooking and entertaining. She was an integral part to a Thanksgiving family tradition that started with the immediate family and continued throughout her life. Family always came first. Barbara, affectionately called "Grandmom," had 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Grandmom always kept up with everyone through phone calls and cards for birthdays and anniversaries. She loved to shop, and even after her stroke, she continued searching through many mail-order catalogs. "Hail Mary" was her "go to" prayer. She modeled her Blessed Mother's example of holding and pondering things close to her heart. She listened more than she spoke. The physical trails she endured were always met with acceptance and courage. Barbara had a stroke in 2017 and Gus cared for her in their home until he passed away from a brain tumor in 2019. Barbar remained in her home until her death. She was cared for and loved by so many wonderful, individual caregivers. It should also be mentioned that both Emerald Isle Fire & Rescue and Pruitt Home Health & Hospice were of great support. Barbara's faith and sense of humor never ceased to amaze anyone she met. Humility and patience were exhibited every day. She loved to watch the Hallmark Channel and play cards. Her favorite card game was Hand and Foot, and she would teach anyone who didn't know how to play. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, St. Jude Children's Hospital at stjude. org.Show more