Rachel A. Leach

May 9, 1943 - February 15, 2021

Rensselaer-Rachel A. Leach passed away peacefully on February 15, 2021, with her beloved brother Jon and sister in law Danielle by her side. She lived to be 77. Rachel was born in Albany, NY on May 9, 1943 to the late Charles M. and Rachel I. Leach. She attended Colonie High School and lived most of her life in the City of Rensselaer, NY. Rachel is survived by her brother’s Jon (Danielle) Leach and Michael Leach. Rachel worked for many years as a telephone operator with AT&T. She then retired after 20 years of service as a clerk with the Rensselaer County Department of Social Services. Rachel was a gifted painter of watercolors, enjoyed crossword puzzles and loved telling stories about the trips she took with her mother and their friends from the Rensselaer Senior Center. She was a lover of all animals and supported many groups such as the ASPCA and WWF. Her pet cockatiel, ‘pretty birdie’ Louie, gave her much joy and she delighted in teaching him to talk. Every summer, Rachel looked forward to sitting on her front porch watching the hummingbirds visit her feeders and socializing with her dear friends. We are sure that her dog’s Sandy and Smokey were there to greet her as she entered into Eternal Life. The family would like to extend their gratitude for the kind and compassionate care Rachel received from the St. Peter’s Hospital ER and ICU staff. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Rachel’s family Monday, February 22, 2021 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the William J. Rockefeller Funeral Home, 165 Columbia Turnpike, Rensselaer, NY 12144. Her funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm. To leave a message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Menands NY 12204.