Leo Abe Massad, Jr.

Leo Abe Massad, Jr. of Allentown, Pennsylvania, has gone to his heavenly home on July 24th at the age of 92.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, “Papa Leo” is survived by his cherished bride of 65 years, Mary Ann; daughters Julie, Vicki, and Mary; sons John and Thomas; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

He leaves this world after his son Stephen, parents Abe and Julia, as well as sister Christine; but before sisters Theresa, Barbara, Mary Frances, and Andrea; and brothers John and Louis.

Papa Leo’s strength, selflessness, kind-heartedness to all, and unwavering dedication to family and community, made him a stellar example of what a human being should be. An enthusiastic coronet player at Benedictine High School in Richmond, he served his nation in the United Sates Navy aboard the USS Marquette during the Korean War era. Following military service, he graduated from the University of Richmond and began a long and distinguished professional career that culminated as an executive vice president and Controller for the Hertz Corporation. He lent his time and talents for decades in the Catholic Church serving as a lector and eucharistic minister along with volunteering on many parish projects.

His infectious smile and laughter will live on in all those who had the joy and pleasure to know and love him. His commitment, dedication, and moral compass will continue to inspire all who have crossed paths with him. Heaven just became an even better place thanks to Papa Leo’s arrival.

A funeral mass will be held at St Paul RC Church, cor. Union Avenue & 2nd Street in Clifton, NJ on July 30th at 10:00am (Please meet at church), followed by burial services at Calvary Cemetery., Paterson. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Leo’s name to either Mercy Ships (https://www.mercyships.org/) or National Parks Conservation Association (https://give.nationalparks.org/).

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