Edward S. Leal, Jr.

Edward S. Leal, Jr. — “Ed” — lived a full, hardworking life rooted in family, craftsmanship, and the outdoors. He passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 70, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born and raised on his family’s dairy farm in Delhi, Ed attended Delaware Academy, where he was a three-sport athlete — playing football, baseball, and basketball. He later attended SUNY Delhi and went on to work at Dreamstreet Farms before starting his own successful construction company — a craft he carried with him throughout his life.

A passionate outdoorsman, Ed found joy in hunting — but even more in sharing that love with his children. Some of his most treasured memories included his first moose and elk hunts, bear camp with Shy, the time he and Marshall each got a buck within 40 minutes of each other, and teaching Mason how to track deer. He also loved four-wheeling, target shooting, and sitting on his back deck, watching the birds while enjoying a nice steak dinner.

Ed was an exceptional carpenter whose skill and precision brought countless clients’ dreams to life. There was hardly a construction problem he couldn’t solve. He often brought his kids along to job sites and took great pride in working alongside his eldest son for the last five years. His craftsmanship became part of the family — skills and lessons he passed down to his children and his brother, who carry that same pride and dedication forward in their own work. Ed was a hardworking man who truly loved what he did — and kept doing it until his final days.

What people will remember most, though, is the way Ed made others feel. His smile could light up a room, his laugh put everyone at ease, and his quiet confidence drew people in. His hugs offered real comfort, and his handshake was as big-hearted as the man himself.

He was a man with strong hands and a generous heart — the kind who showed love through action, steadiness, and presence. As the oldest of five, Ed was a proud big brother — protective, generous, and always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh. His love for family ran deep, and he carried that same care into every friendship and connection he made.

Ed is reunited in heaven with his parents, Edward and Katherine Leal; his brother, William Leal; and his sister, Kelly Kannon.

He is survived by his children Jaime, Shylabeth, Katherine, Marshall, Rachel, and Mason; six beloved grandchildren; his loving partner, Vanna; his sister Deborah Mayak (Theo) and brother Robert Leal (Molly); as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and countless friends — many of them former clients who became like family — who loved him dearly.

Friends and relatives are invited to celebrate Ed’s life on November 2nd, 2025 from 1-5 pm at the Delhi Fire Hall, 140 Delview Terrace Ext, Delhi, NY. A private burial will follow. The family extends heartfelt thanks for your kindness and support during this time.

Please visit www.macarthurfh.com to share a condolence with Ed’s family.