Leslie J. Stickles, Sr.

Leslie Joseph Stickles, Sr., son of the late Leslie Joseph Stickles and Sybilla Pricilla Fink Stickles Smith, was born in Washington, D.C., raised in South Baltimore and attended Southern High School. Leslie was a World War II veteran. Shortly after the war, Leslie was introduced to Shirley Mae Nalls. A courtship ensued, eventually leading to Holy Matrimony.

Leslie joined the Baltimore City Police Department in 1952 and, in 1990, retired from the Department after a 38-year career that saw him attain the rank of Lieutenant. In addition to his service to Baltimore City, he held many jobs to support his family including, delivering flowers for J. J. Cummings and Son, Coordinator, Associated Builder’s and Contractor’s (ABC), the Mill Race (catering) and working as security for the Hyatt in downtown Baltimore City. Leslie enjoyed family get-togethers and playing cards with family and friends. After his retirement, Leslie and Shirley embarked on a series of adventures that allowed them to visit all 50 States in addition to the Panama Canal, Canada, France, England, Australia, Italy, New Zealand and several other foreign countries.

Leslie was preceded in death by his loving wife of 67 years, Shirley Mae Stickles (nee Nalls), and his sister, Mary Katherine Zimmerman. He is survived by 9 children, Leslie Stickles, Jr. (Ginny), JoAnn King (Wayne), Jeffrey Stickles (Karen), Kevin Stickles (Lisa), Craig Stickles (Debbie), LaRue Pannuty (Clarence), Stacey Stickles, James Edwards (Tiny), and his newly adopted daughter, Sue Finke, who became an invaluable member of his family as she lovingly cared for Shirley and Leslie. The cherished grandfather of Christopher (Norma) and Brandon (Laura) Stickles; Tara King Reinert (Paul); Laura Stickles France (Matthew) and Allison Stickles; Kristin Stickles Hadden (Grant), Jacqueline Pundt Campbell (Adam) and Brittney Pundt (Scott); Gregory Buchman (Jennifer) and Emily Buchman Murphy (John); C. J. Pannuty, Amie Pannuty (Scott) and Nicholas Pannuty (Courtney); Shelby Wright, Sydney Wright (Shane) and Shannon Wright. The devoted great-grandfather of Izaak, Colin and Jackson Stickles, Lisamy Borrero, Kiara, Jose and Sophia Landrua; Alyssa and Austin Stickles; Greyson and Scarlett Reinert; Kaiden and Flynn France; Isla and Auden Hadden; Tyler and Dylan Campbell; Johnny and Tommy Murphy, Anthony Buchman, Cory and Brad Taggart; Jacob, Jade and Jaxon Pannuty, Esther Lawlor, Nicholas Pannuty, Jr., and Lillian Dawson; and, one great-great-granddaughter, Isabella Restal. Leslie is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

On November 24, 2018, at the age of 91, Leslie passed away peacefully in his sleep while surrounded by family and friends. Leslie will be laid out at the Harry Witzke Funeral Home, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043. Viewings will be held on Wednesday (11/28) and Thursday (11/29) from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. The service will be held at the funeral home at 11:00 a.m., on Friday (11/30). Interment will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery following the service. 

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