Vera Petrona Leigh

“My name is Vera Petrona Leigh — that’s L-E-I-G-H, not L-E-E.”

She always introduced herself this way, proud of her name and delighted to share it with a smile and a laugh.

Ms. Vera Petrona Leigh was born on April 17, 1929, in Portland, Jamaica, and peacefully departed this life on August 26, 2025, at the age of 96.

Vera, often called Mama by loved ones,  lived a long and remarkable life, filled with resilience, humor, and love. 

She often recalled a childhood filled with memories of spending time with family and causing a little mischief here and there.  At an early age, she began dressmaking, which was not just a trade but became a lifelong career. She was a renowned seamstress whose skill and artistry touched countless lives through the garments she created. She dedicated her time and energy to changing simple fabric into a fashionable piece of clothing. Her work was not only admired but also cherished by those fortunate enough to wear it. She was also an aspiring grammar teacher who insisted that the Queen’s English must always be spoken and was quick to correct patois.

She also had an insatiable love of music. She knew and sang the words to every Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra song that was written. Not to mention every hymn from every hymnal published.

Known for her sharp wit, welcoming presence, and the stories she loved to tell, Vera’s spirit touched all who knew her.

A devout member of  Edgewater Baptist Church (Jamaica), Springfield Gardens Church of Christ (NY), and in her later years, worship at Unity of Atlanta, she dedicated her time and energy to church activities, faithfully serving her community and strengthening others through her steadfast faith.

Family was her greatest joy. She lovingly cared for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, nurturing, and wisdom. Known for her warmth and hospitality, she was also a wonderful cook, filling her home with comforting meals and the laughter of loved ones.

Vera Petrona Leigh’s life was a testament to love, service, and faith. She will be remembered not only for the beauty she created with her hands, but also for the love she poured into every life she touched.

She is preceded in death by her father, Ronald, her mother, Lucille, siblings (Claris, Wesley & Eugene) & daughter Judy. She is survived by her devoted children, Yvonne, Garfield (Angie), and Diana (Louis),  her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, her beloved siblings, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and countless friends and church brethren who became like family.

Vera’s legacy is one of strength, laughter, and unshakable love for those around her. She will be remembered not only for the years she lived, but for the way she lived them — full of pride, humor, and a warmth that embraced everyone she met.

Her celebration of life will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Unity Atlanta. The family invites all who loved her to join in celebrating her extraordinary 96 years of life.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23