Department Mourns the Loss of Dr Leach

James Leach
May 3, 1939 – November 13, 2021
Raleigh, North Carolina – James “Jim” Woodrow Leach, 82, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on Nov. 13, 2021, surrounded by his loving family.
James was born on May 3, 1939 to Lucille and Woodrow Leach in Bonham, TX. After high school, he continued his education going on to earn his PhD at Rice University in Houston, TX. He worked in the engineering field, ending his career as a Mechanical Engineering professor at North Carolina State University from 1979 until 2011.
He and his wife Claire “Mackie” Laubenthal Leach wed in 1968. They went on to have five children, Angie, Sharon, Suzie, Tom, and Jamie. After retiring, James kept busy with many projects and hobbies, including fishing with grandkids, listening to a variety of music, woodworking, playing golf, and enjoying the outdoors.
James was predeceased by parents, Lucille and Woodrow Leach, and brothers Mike and Bobby “Bud” Leach. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, children, grandchildren, sister Karen Ayala, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
At his request, there will not be a service. He will be buried in the Arledge Ridge Cemetery in Bonham, TX.

Published by The News & Observer on Nov. 16, 2021.