Lydia Maria Leszczynski

Lydia M. Leszczynski, 93, of Eastern Ave., passed away suddenly on Monday, June 2, 2025 at Ellis Hospital, with her loving family by her side.

Born in Schenectady, she was the daughter of the late Maria and Michael Santagapita. She attended Mont Pleasant High School, and graduated from Royal Beauty Academy of Cosmetology. She was a buyer for Morris Jewelers in downtown Schenectady for several years. She was a member of the former St. Mary’s Church. Lydia was a big part of the legacy at the Leszczynski Funeral Home along side her husband Frank which was in business for 96 years. She loved cooking for family and friends, one never left with an empty stomach and large containers of food. Lydia was a legend, celebrating many parties, dinners, and get togethers with her husband, family and friends, for years at her summer home on Saratoga Lake.

Lydia was the beloved wife of the late Frank L. Leszczynski whom she married on May 23, 1954 at St. Mary’s Church. Loving mother of her twin boys, Mark (Deborah), Michael (Kristen) Leszczynski, and daughter Tami Jackson.  Cherished grandmother of Vaughan (Lindsay), Presley (Jaclyn), Noel (Joey), Nolan, Dylan and Noah.  Adoring great-grandmother of Ella, Jordan, Jagger, and Coveley. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by her twin brother, Arthur Santy, sisters, Evelyn Bottieri, and Mafalda Lachanski.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, June 11, at St. John the Evangelist Church, at 12 noon.  Interment will be private where she will be laid to eternal rest next to her husband Frank. 

In lieu of flowers those who wish to remember Lydia in a special way may make a contribution to Animal Protective Foundation, 53 Maple Ave., Scotia, NY 12302 or to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital.