Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Darryl James DeLeonardis passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on January 22, 2025 at the age of 77 after a two and a half year battle with cancer. Darryl will always be remembered for his kind heart, gentle soul and a positive attitude that never wavered. 

Darryl was born in Lorain, Ohio on September 23rd 1947. He graduated from Admiral King High school and attended college at General Motors Institute (GMI). He joined Sigma Chi fraternity where he met many lifelong friends. Darryl started working as an intern at General Motors at the age of 17 and went on to enjoy a long and successful career in manufacturing engineering at GM spanning 43 years. During this time Darryl completed his executive MBA at Harvard University. 

Darryl married the love of his life Judy in 1973 and had two daughters, Kristen and Kelly. He was the most devoted husband and father, a true example of what we can all aspire to be. One of Darryl’s greatest joys was traveling with his family. He especially loved the many ski trips his family took all around the country. Darryl retired with his wife Judy in Melbourne Beach, Florida. However, Darryl could not stay retired for long and started his own tax business. He achieved an enrolled agent certification, one of the most challenging to obtain as a tax preparer. 

Darryl will be remembered as one of the most selfless, intelligent, detailed and genuinely kind individuals. He had a true gift in his ability to plan and prepare, he was meticulous and always 10 steps ahead. He had a sense of calm that couldn’t help but put others at ease. Simple pleasures such as good food, playing cards, reading, taking care of the house and most importantly, spending time with his family brought him the most joy. Darryl will be deeply missed by all that adored him so much.

 Darryl is survived by his wife of 53 years, Judith Kay DeLeonardis, his daughters Kristen Yandora (Joseph Yandora) and Kelly Prendergast (Ryan Prendergast) as well as his four grandchildren he adored, Claire and Olivia Yandora and Myles and Reagan Prendergast. He is also survived by his sister Bonnie DelMonico. Darryl is preceded in death by his parents Dante and Genevieve DeLeonardis.  

We will be holding a celebration of life for Darryl on Sunday April 6th from 2-5pm at The Kingsley Hotel 39475 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304. 

If you would like to make a memorable contribution in Darryl’s name there are two local Detroit area non-profits that Kristy has worked closely with and are very dear to our family. These are both incredible organizations making an impact in our community. 

Life Remodeled 

Life Remodeled’s mission is to create neighborhood revitalization that lasts.  To do this, they repurpose buildings into one-stop hubs of opportunity bringing a variety of services such as youth programming, heath care, and job training and placement to under served Detroit neighborhoods.

Dutton Farm 

Dutton Farm empowers adults with disabilities to live a life of purpose, inclusion, and dignity.  Dutton Farm offers engaging educational programs, meaningful community experiences (including volunteer opportunities), and job training and placement services, enabling adults with disabilities to earn a fair wage.