Leonard Wilson

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Leonard Henry Wilson Jr. whom God called home on February 9, 2024. “Lenny” as he was affectionately known, was born on August 17, 1954 in the Bronx, NY to proud parents Leonard H. Wilson Sr. and Ethel Mae Wilson. He was the firstborn of their three children.

After graduating from James Monroe High School in the Bronx, New York he enlisted in the United States Armed Forces ROTC Officer Training Program. After completing this program and service to his country, this Navy Veteran was Honorably Discharged and returned to his roots in the Bronx, New York

He was a hard worker with various skills. He was a clerk at the World Trade Center and held positions at the Salvation Army and Radio City Music Hall. While attending John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, Lenny took the exam for the New York City Fire Department. After completing their extremely rigorous training, he was hired as a New York City Firefighter, “New York’s Bravest”. This held true to Lenny as he was one of the two first African American men assigned to New York's infamous fire Company in the Bronx, Engine 73/Ladder Company 42, protecting East Morrisania of the South Bronx.  He loved being a Firefighter and was featured and photographed in the New York Daily Newspaper rescuing a child from a burning building. He was a Firefighter for 18 years.

He loved sports and played High School and neighborhood Baseball as a Pitcher and Center Fielder.  He was a big sports enthusiast and loved his New York Yankees and Giants. From all who knew him, he embodied the best of qualities; unconditional love, strength of spirit, and unending generosity. Above all he loved God. His departure leaves a deep wound gravely felt by family and friends who truly knew him.

Lenny was predeceased by his parents, Leonard H. Wilson Sr. and Ethel Mae Wilson.

He is survived by his three sons, Curtis Wilson, Lenny Wilson Jr., and James Wilson; two siblings, Tony Wilson (Ramona Gamble Wilson) and Denise Wilson, David Wilson); four grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three nieces, Danielle Wilson, Zeyshunne Wilson and Tiana Wilson; one nephew, Tony Wilson II; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. 

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