Leon Missry, 91

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Born on the fourth of July, Leon Missry, of Providence, passed away peacefully at home on April 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was the cherished husband of Madeleine Judith (Werner) Missry, with whom he shared 53 years of marriage. He was also the devoted husband of the late Joan Lois Missry (Orleck). 

Leon is survived by his wife, Judith, and five children: Michelle Missry Marshall (Stephen), Jill Bromberg, Denise Missry Milburn (Jeffrey), Jack Maurice Missry (Ekaterina) and Ari Solomon Missry. 

He was the proud grandfather of eight and great-grandfather to one: Dylan Marshall (Mytra Haerizadeh), Joan Marshall, Joshua and Charlotte Bromberg, Lee and Annette Milburn, Leon and Victoria Missry, and his cherished great-granddaughter, Layla Marshall. 

He is also survived by his siblings, Rachel Cohen, Seymour Missry and Muriel Simberg, and was predeceased by his sisters Annette Teubal and Beatrice Esses. He leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Born in Exeter, New Hampshire, Leon was the son of the late Jack and Matilda (Asher) Missry. He was a proud graduate of Hope High School, class of 1951. In 1955, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering from Lowell Textile Institute. He served honorably in the United States Air Force during peacetime, attaining the rank of Captain, and later served in the Army National Guard. 

Leon began his career as a textile engineer at Malden Mills before becoming a successful entrepreneur. He owned and operated the Pier Linen Shop for 40 years, and later, he and Judith teamed up to launch MJM Physical Therapy, which they ran together with dedication. 

Leon was deeply engaged in both the Jewish and wider Rhode Island communities. He served as president of Congregation Beth Sholom and was a member of Temple Emanu-El. He also served on the boards of several local healthcare organizations and the Gibson Court Condominium Association, in Narragansett. 

Leon was known for his active lifestyle and boundless energy. He loved skiing and played tennis well into his nineties. He shared these joys with Judith, his beloved partner in both life and adventure – from traveling together to their never-ending backgammon tournaments. 

Leon’s joie de vivre, sharp insight and quick wit brought smiles to everyone around him, often catching even his hospice nurses off guard with his one-liners. Leon approached life with humor, heart and an enduring positivity that touched everyone he met. 

Above all, Leon valued his family. He was a loyal husband, a devoted father and an engaged friend. His presence, warmth and wit will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

Contributions may be made to HopeHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904; or Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave., Providence, RI 02906; or Congregation Beth Sholom, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906.