Rev. Dr. Richard G. Leaver

Service above self is the cornerstone of Rotary. It’s built on friendship and dedication, keeping our hearts strong, enthusiasm fresh, and hope high. Reverend Dr. Richard G. Leaver filled his years with humanity, service, and faith, pastoring to those who needed it most. 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that love is an active demonstration of patience, kindness, humility, and endurance, and should be part of our everyday life. Dr. Leaver, loved as just our Rich, was unassuming, truthful, fair, and genuinely concerned for those around him. What we think creates the world around us. It's all about energy and interconnectivity.

Whoever believes in Jesus will not perish but have eternal life, as God loved the world enough to give his only Son. On the day of rest and worship, heaven had lit his way, and the corruptible put on the incorruptible. The angels had waited for so long; now they have their way. After a few tumultuous years, Rich passed away, after 80 years, at Virtua-Lourdes Hospital in Camden. Life never gives, it merely lends, so laugh and cry in equal measure, and celebrate that we were friends.

Rich has been a longtime Gloucester neighbor. The two most important days in your life are the day you are born, and the day you find out why. He earned his undergraduate degree at Drexel University, then attended the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary and finally Drew Seminary, where he earned his Doctor of Theology. Reverend Leaver ministered to the United Methodist Church congregation. He filled the role of pastor for 22 years and worked as a chaplain for 10 years.

Rich joined the Gloucester City - Brooklawn Rotary Club in 2010 and actively served the club as President and secretary over the years. Dr. Leaver is honored as a Paul Harris Fellow and served NJ Rotary District 7505.

Rich is the son of the late Russel W. and his late wife, Elena Leaver. He was predeceased by his late wife, Dalene (nee Crowder) Leaver. Rich is survived and will be deeply missed by his dear friend Beth & her husband Michael Kazmar, as well as his great nieces and nephews, and Rotarians.

Relatives, friends, neighbors, and Rotarians are invited to come together in tribute and thanksgiving on Saturday morning between 10:00 am and 11:00 am at McGee Celebration Etherington Funeral Home, 700 Powell St., Gloucester City, where we will celebrate Reverend Leaver’s life in faith in a ceremony offered by Pastor Reverend Daniel Amey. A graveside tribute and the witness of love’s reunion will immediately follow at Woodbury Memorial Park.

As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Gloucester City - Brooklawn Rotary Club ℅ McGee Celebration at the above address.

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