It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Leo Thomas Mahoney — devoted husband, father, Papa, Navy Commander, and friend — who died peacefully in Brazil on June 21, 2026, at the age of 78, surrounded by the love of his family and his faithful Old English Sheepdog, Winston, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia.
Born January 5, 1948, in Jackson Heights, New York, Leo was the son of the late Charles and Aileen Mahoney. He was predeceased by his sister Kathryn and brother George, and is survived by his brother Charles and sister-in-law Barbara Mahoney of St. Augustine, Florida.
Leo proudly served in the United States Navy, rising to the rank of Commander. His distinguished career included submarine service, flight training, and duty aboard the USS Marvin Shields. He carried the Navy's values of honor, courage, and commitment through the rest of his life, including a successful career in manufacturing and operations management, where he led with character, humility, and a strong work ethic.
The greatest chapter of Leo's life began with Linda, the love of his life. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, and family, and remained each other's greatest strength through every season.
Leo is survived by his children: Tricia Brady (James), Shawn Mahoney (Vanessa), Eileen Codeanne (John), and Liz Mahoney ("Squirt"). Of all his titles, the one he treasured most was Papa. His grandchildren — Katie, Jimmy, Grace, Ava, Lani, and Colin — were the light of his life, and each carries forward a piece of his heart.
Leo's spirit of service extended well beyond the Navy. He was Senior Vice Commander of American Legion Post 196 and active in the Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis, the Irish American Club, and Port Five Naval Veterans in Bridgeport. He loved boating and sailing, had a lifelong love of rugby, found peace tending his garden, and was known for his infectious smile, generous spirit, and playful humor — often offering a "knuckle sandwich" that everyone knew was pure affection.
In August 2025, Leo and Linda moved to Brazil to be near their son Shawn and his wife Vanessa, and dear friend Billy Donaldson. Though his health declined, his final months were filled with family, friendship, love, and Winston's constant companionship. Through it all, Linda remained faithfully by his side.
A Memorial Visitation will be held Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford, Connecticut. A Prayer Service is to begin at 12:00 p.m.
A Graveside Service with full military honors will take place Monday, July 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, Connecticut, please meet directly at the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations in Leo's memory to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at lbda.org/donate to support research, education, and families living with this disease. To leave condolences, please visit CodyWhiteFuneralService.com
The Mahoney family extends deepest gratitude to the caregivers, physicians, nurses, family, and friends whose compassion and prayers surrounded Leo and Linda throughout this journey.
Well done, good and faithful servant.— Matthew 25:23
Fair winds and following seas, Commander. Your watch is complete.
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