Obituary of Leanora L. Deslandes

DESLANDES, Leanora Louise (née Cranston) "Miss Pinkie" – 1926-2024 Leanora passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 17, 2024, at the age of 98. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend who touched the lives of many with her warmth, creativity, and unwavering love. Predeceased by her husband, Horace Nathaniel Deslandes, and her parents, Advira Elizabeth Cranston (née Anderson) and William Claud Cranston, Leanora leaves behind two devoted daughters, Yvonne Myers (Roy) and Shevon Nelson; her cherished grandchildren, Lynden and Michele Myers of Canada, Denise Nelson of California, Duane Nelson (Jen) of NJ; and her three great-grandchildren, Olivia, Michaela, and Christopher. Her legacy of love, strength, and resilience will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Leanora, affectionately known as Miss Pinkie, was a remarkable woman of many talents. A self-taught dressmaker, she created exquisite bridal gowns, often without the use of patterns, during her years in England. Her gifts extended to baking, especially her legendary black wedding cakes, made with a secret recipe shared only with close friends. Miss Pinkie also brought hair weaving to Black women in London in the mid-1960s, turning it into a thriving business that employed others and set a trend in the community. Beyond her talents, Leonora had a passion for home and family. She took great pride in overseeing the construction of her dream home on Cooper's Hill, Jamaica, where she and her husband would sit in the evenings, admiring the sweeping views of St. Andrew’s, Port Royal, and the twinkling lights below. That home, as well as her earlier home in Spanish Town, were places where family and friends gathered, drawn by her warmth and hospitality. Miss Pinkie’s homes were not just buildings; they were centers of love, laughter, and lifelong memories. Leanora’s generosity extended beyond her immediate family. She helped numerous friends and relatives emigrate from Jamaica, first to England and later to the U.S., offering them opportunities for a better life. She made lasting friendships wherever she went, always making others feel welcome and cared for. Her deep Catholic faith was a guiding force throughout her life. One of the highlights of her spiritual journey was meeting Pope Saint John Paul II during his visit to Jamaica, a moment she cherished deeply. Though she lived in many places throughout her life—Jamaica, England, New Jersey, and Florida—Leonora always stayed connected to her roots. Her love of travel, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her devotion to her family defined her journey. Whether on Caribbean cruises or spending time at home with loved ones, Miss Pinkie lived life fully, with grace and determination. Mom, Nana, Nana-Banana, Miss Pinkie – Leonora will forever be remembered for her strength, generosity, and the love she poured into every relationship. She leaves behind a legacy of beauty and resilience that will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Rest peacefully, dearest one, until we meet again. In Repose Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Please keep the Deslandes family in your thoughts and prayers. The Joseph A. Scarano Pines Memorial Chapel is Honored to assist the Deslandes family with the arrangements.