Leslie Ann Soy Wynder

Leslie Ann Soy Wynder, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished daughter, sister, and dear friend, passed away on April 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of deep, unwavering love and a life beautifully centered around the people who meant everything to her.

Leslie’s greatest love story began in early 1996, when she met James Thomas Wynder III in college. Their beginning was as unique as the life they built together—when, while searching for help with a speech, James mistakenly called Leslie’s grandmother, who, in a simple act of kindness, shared Leslie’s number, setting everything in motion. From that moment on, something rare and extraordinary took hold. Their love was constant, enduring, and deeply understood. They were, without question, soulmates.

Leslie earned her associate degree from Luzerne County Community College and continued her studies at Bloomsburg University. She went on to build a meaningful career in training and development with C3i and Travelocity, where she connected with others through teaching and mentorship. She also gave her time and heart to teaching Sunday school at Sacred Heart in Duryea.

On October 17, 2002, Leslie and James eloped in Negril, Jamaica—choosing a quiet, intimate moment that reflected the depth of their bond. After nearly a decade of hoping and waiting, a trip to Costa Rica became something more than a destination—it became their magical place. On a whim, they purchased a small “fertility frog,” and just 30 days later, Leslie became pregnant with their first daughter, Marley, born in 2011. What had once felt impossible became their miracle, forever tying Costa Rica to the beginning of the family they had dreamed of. Their second daughter, Johanna, followed in 2013, completing the life Leslie cherished beyond words.

Motherhood was the center of Leslie’s heart. Her days were filled with Girl Scouts, dance recitals, karate classes, and countless moments spent cheering her daughters on. She showed up for everything—with love, pride, and a steady presence. James, Marley, and Johanna were not just her family—they were her whole world.

Leslie found joy in life’s simple and magical moments. She loved reading and dreamed of writing. She treasured trips to Renaissance Fairs with her daughters, dressing up and making memories they would carry forever. She shared laughter over Mel Brooks, a love of Star Wars and Dungeons & Dragons with her family, and found happiness in music, especially Tedeschi Trucks Band.

Family meant everything to Leslie. She shared deep bonds with her siblings—Johnny, Jessica (Rich), Karen, Brian, and Samantha, who loved her like a second mother. She also had a special connection with her bonus brother, Tim, and cherished her many aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews, holding each of them close to her heart.

At the heart of Leslie’s life were her parents, Patty and John Soy. They raised her with love, strength, and kindness, and she carried those gifts into every part of her life. Leslie loved them beyond words and remained incredibly close to them. Their presence was constant—not only in her life, but in the lives of Marley and JoJo. The family Leslie built was a reflection of the one that built her.

Even in her passing, Leslie’s kindness continues. Through her selfless decision to donate her organs, she has given others the gift of life—ensuring that her love and impact will carry on in ways both seen and unseen.

Leslie’s love will live on—in the hearts of James, Marley, and JoJo and in the many lives she touched so deeply. She lived with intention, loved without limits, and gave everything she had to the people who mattered most.

She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.

A small gathering for Leslie will be held at Kiesinger Funeral Services, 255 McAlpine St. Duryea, PA on Thursday, April 30th from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. Then a few words from those closest to her.

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