Leon Everd Pilewski
Leon Everd Pilewski, 74, of Lake Floyd, Bristol, passed away leaving a legacy of love and devotion as a cherished husband and father. He “fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith” and was a man of unwavering integrity whose kindness and wisdom left an indelible mark on the lives he touched.
Leon was known for his admirable qualities – his warm smile, his generous spirit, and his willingness to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered for his compassion and strength that will endure through the countless lives he influenced.
Born to Leo James Pilewski and Mary Kathleen Pilewski, Leon was raised with values of integrity and a desire to help others which he carried throughout his life. He followed his father into the field of education and never hesitated to ask for his advice.
Leon married Phyllis Vaughan Pilewski on May 4, 1974. In addition to his wife, he is survived by one son, Noel Everd Pilewski (Lori), Pittsburgh; one daughter, Phylicia Vaughan Pilewski, Charleston; one sister, Lexsana Carr (Jim); one brother-in-law, Shelby McNeal (Barbara); one grandson, Tyler Pilewski; two nieces, Melanie Spitze (Mike) and Alayne Bowman (Noah); one nephew, Jason McNeal (Heather). Several cousins were a major part of his life, and he spent summers in Ohio with three cousins who were more like brothers to him – Mark, Keith, and Loren Mason. His entire family was his support and his motivation throughout his life’s endeavors.
He graduated as the salutatorian from Notre Dame High School in 1967 which laid a foundation for his future achievements. He continued his educational pursuits graduating from Salem College with a BS in biology and from West Virginia University with a master’s degree in educational leadership. His passion for education manifested profoundly during his 18-year tenure as the inaugural principal at Robert C. Byrd High School. His visionary leadership and dedication earned him recognition as the West Virginia State Principal of the Year in 1995.
Not only a leader in education, but Leon was also an active member of the Gideon International organization, committed to spreading faith and humanitarian work. He was a member of Faith Fellowship/Centerbranch Church where he served as an elder for over 30 years. His church family provided continued support in every area of his life, and the elders served as his pallbearers. He also served as a board member of the Lake Floyd Public Service District and was a former member of the Lake Floyd Board of Directors. Upon his retirement, the WVSSAC honored him by establishing a scholarship in his name.
A lifelong love of sports began when he was in elementary school and attended Pittsburgh Pirates games with his dad and Uncle Mason. He was an avid supporter of West Virginia University sports and especially enjoyed WVU football and basketball games with good friends, Don and Jeff Browning.
Leon traveled to many countries, and his most memorable trips were to Israel where he was baptized in the Jordan River and to Poland where he was invited to participate in the “Walk of the Living” to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. He also enjoyed visiting state parks all over the United States, but especially enjoyed hiking the ones in West Virginia including his favorite – Watoga State Park.
Leon will also be remembered for his unwavering dedication, profound influence, and kindness that touched the lives of many. His impact on education and community service will remain an enduring legacy, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps. His presence will be profoundly missed by family, friends, friends who became family, former colleagues, and former students.
Leon was “in the public eye” his entire career, and he loved every minute of it. However, he opted to have a final goodbye with close family and friends who had been a part of his recent journey. Private funeral services were held at Davis Funeral Home, 124 Olen Thomas Drive, Clarksburg, WV, 26301, and interment was held at Coplin Cemetery. Both the memorial service and the gravesite service were officiated by Pastor Chad Keener of Centerbranch Church.
Online condolences can be made on www.DavisFuneralHomeWV. Com. Davis Funeral Home is honored to serve the Pilewski family.