Arthur Royden Leighton

Arthur Royden Leighton, 78, of Westbrook, peacefully passed away on Saturday evening at Gosnell Memorial House, following a brief illness. Known affectionately as “Roy,” he was a truly kind and compassionate man, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His generosity and warmth touched the lives of everyone around him, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will not be forgotten. Roy was born on November 4, 1946, in Portland, the son of Royden W. and Priscilla Boissonneau Leighton. Roy graduated from Westbrook High School, Class of 1965. In 1968 he joined the United States Air Force where he honorably served for four years as a Military Police Officer, embodying the spirit of courage and commitment. After the Air Force, he went to work as a Paper Maker at SD Warren/SAPPI. He married Cheryl Small on May 16, 1970, and this May, they would have celebrated a remarkable 55 years of marriage together. Roy was a member of the Stephen W. Manchester Post 62 and actively participated in the Westbrook Kiwanis Club. He served as a Library Regent for the Walker Memorial Library and served as a moderator and trustee of the Westbrook- Warren Congregational Church. His dedication to these organizations demonstrated his commitment to the community and his passion for service. Roy proudly achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and is a distinguished member of the Order of the Arrow Brotherhood, showcasing his leadership and perseverance. His passion for playing golf was matched only by his enthusiasm for supporting his grandchildren, great-grandsons, and the children of family friends at various sporting events and activities. He was a dedicated and beloved member of the Westbrook- Warren Congregational Church. For many years, he took on the important role of a leader in the High School Room in the LOGOS program, nurturing young minds and spirits. Roy became a cherished mentor to many young men and women through the youth fellowship, inspiring them with his guidance and support. His love for cooking shone brightly in his preparation of meals for events like the popular Bean Suppers and other community gatherings at the church. Roy treasured his summers at Camp Hinds for boy scouts, a magical place where he embraced the role of camp counselor, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the young campers he guided. For Roy, family was everything. Whether he was whipping up delicious breakfasts for his grandkids, or hosting summer cookouts filled with the mouthwatering aroma of lobsters and steamers, his heart was always full when surrounded by those he loved. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl, and their twin daughters: Brenda Stearns and her husband, Christopher Stearns, of Westbrook, and Beth Binette and her husband, Michael Binette, of Paris, Maine. He also leaves behind his grandchildren: Caitlyn Hildreth and her husband, Timothy Hildreth; Benjamin Stearns; Andrew, Nicholas, and Samuel Binette. Additionally, he is survived by two great-grandsons, Theodore and Archer Hildreth. Furthermore, he survived by his siblings, Roxana (Ronald) McGlauflin; brothers Gary (Kathy), Leighton and Suzette (Steve) Gingras; as well as several nieces and nephews: Kevin, Krista, Ethan, Benjamin, Patrick, Katie, Amy, Meaghan, Parker, Karagan, Lexi, Maddox, Ellie, Cal, Magnolia, and Annabel. We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House and the extraordinary team who provided exceptional care while dad was there, your unwavering dedication and heartfelt compassion made an immeasurable difference in his journey. A special acknowledgement goes to Dr. Jessica Bian, Dr. Ellis Johnson, and Dr. Gary Hochheiser for their remarkable care and kindness. Please join us to celebrate Roy, on Sunday, April 13th, at 1:30 PM at Westbrook - Warren Congregational Church on Main Street. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Honor Flight Maine, PO Box 699, Brunswick, ME 04011 or Westbrook-Warren Congregational church.

Arthur Royden Leighton

November 4, 1946 - April 5, 2025

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