Austin Leahy

BUSHNELL, Fla. — Austin Leahy, age 93, formerly of Allegany, N.Y., went home to be with the Lord on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025.

He proudly served his country as a U.S. Army paratrooper before becoming a partner in a building construction business.

He found great fulfillment as an educator, where he taught high school physics and math, coached high school wrestling and officiated high school and college wrestling.

He was a high school principal, director of occupational education, school superintendent and a BOCES district superintendent of schools in New York State.

In retirement, he continued to live with energy and purpose. He earned a black belt in Shotokan karate and shared his skills as an instructor, owned and operated a used car dealership and gave generously of his time through volunteer work.

His service included participation in a prison ministry, Habitat for Humanity’s Collegiate Challenge, Guardian ad Litem program and student mentorship.

He is survived by Joyce, the love of his life for 70 years; four children, David (Maria) Leahy of Charlotte, N.C., Terry (Betty) Leahy of Allegany, Sheri (David) Coatney of Lady Lake and Holly (Mark) Messerschmidt of Holland, N.Y.; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by an infant son, Alan Lee Leahy; two sisters, Linda Hayner of Scotia, N.Y. and Alice Gokey of North Lawrence, N.Y.; and a brother, Larry Leahy, of Moira, N.Y.

Burial will be in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.