Leslie Goodnow Schwartz

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Leslie (Goodnow) Schwartz, 83, of Cornelius, North Carolina, following a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Until the very end, Leslie embodied the qualities that made her so beloved — her warmth, grace, compassion, and deep devotion to her family and friends.

Born on August 1, 1942, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Leslie was the eldest of five children and a daughter of the late William and Elizabeth Goodnow. She carried the spirit of her roots throughout her life, growing into a woman of quiet strength and gentle character.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Leslie made it her mission to remain fully present in the lives of those she loved. She was the heart of our family. She was a nurturing and involved parent, encouraging her children in creative pursuits. She delighted especially in her grandchildren, nurturing those relationships with intention and joy.

Leslie had a passion for antiquing and painting. She was a familiar face in antique shops, curating meaningful pieces over the years that found their way into her home and her booth — each one with a small reflection of her creative spirit.

Leslie also loved reading, working in the yard with Lou, spending summer days on the boat at Lake Norman, and traveling all over the world. She always enjoyed time with friends playing bridge and going to movies on Friday nights with Lou. She had a caring heart full of compassion. Her most extraordinary talent was for finding joy in small things. She loved all the arts, loved nature, and loved her husband, family, friends, and community. Those who knew her were made better for it.

In addition to her parents, Leslie was preceded in death by James Dineen, her sisters Susan Begel, Betsy Goodnow, and Chrissy Goodnow and stepson Louis Schwartz.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Lou Schwartz; her children Kristen, Peter (Liliane), and Jamie (Yen); Mark Harrington (Ada), Craig Schwartz (Beth), Todd Harrington (Lisa), Lisa Williams (Wes), Jill Oliver (Craig), her brother Bill Goodnow (Lilly), her beautiful grandchildren Jake, Benjamin, Samantha, Dakota, Sheila ,Damian, Victor, and Lauany as well as a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family who will carry her memory forward with love.

A memorial service will be held in the spring — details will be shared with family and friends in the coming weeks.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Leslie's memory to Hospice House Huntersville.

Leslie will be deeply missed and forever remembered.