William J. Leurant

MANCHESTER -- William J. Leurant, 82, died Oct. 25, 2008, at Maple Leaf Healthcare. He was born on June 14, 1926, in New Kensington, Pa., and raised in the greater Charleston, W. Va., where he met and married his lifelong "honey," Betty J. Thacker, in 1947. Mr. Leurant worked at Libby Owens Ford as a senior glass cutter. He was a skilled trombone musician with local dance bands. Mr. Leurant led the Charleston Rockets Band after tours of duty in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper and later was U.S. Army band conductor during World War II and the Korean War. He enjoyed lifelong memberships with the Charleston Musicians, St. Albans American Legion Post, Master Mason, Washington Lodge 58, Knight Templar of Kanawha Commandary 004 and Shriners. He taught music in retirement. Family includes his wife of 61 years, Betty Jane; and two daughters, Elaine Grabowski of Texas, and Nanette Leurant of Manchester IN HIS LIFE: Known for his quick wit, dry humor and lively storytelling, he will be greatly missed. In addition, he is survived by a grandson, David Brown, and a great-granddaughter, Sydney, both of Georgia; a niece and nephew; and chosen family Lee Stressenger, Sandra Koney and Joanne Stressenger of New Hampshire. SERVICES: Per his wishes, he will be cremated. A memorial service will follow at a later date and his remains will be returned to his beloved West Virginia. Phaneuf Funeral Home and New Hampshire Cremation Society are handling arrangements.