Leona Elizabeth Cope

Leona Elizabeth Cope, a devoted mother, loving grandmother, and beloved sister, passed away peacefully in Ellicott City, Maryland, on September 15, 2023. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, on February 2, 1929, Leona was known for her generous, thoughtful, and selfless nature.

Leona was the cherished wife of the late William Cope, and together they raised three children: Charles Riley (wife Nora), Lydia Mendise (husband Nick), and Doug Cope. Leona was a dedicated homemaker who took immense pride in her family and home.  Her home was always open, and her kitchen was the heart of it all, filled with the delicious scents of her renowned baking. Leona was a gifted gardener, and she found immense joy in the beauty of nature. 

Survived by her children, Leona was also a beloved grandmother to Kimberly, Michael, Lisa, Christopher, Nicholas, Courtney, and Jordan. She was a great-grandmother to Ashlyn, Lucy, Liam, and Olivia. Leona's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the apples of her eye, and she cherished every moment spent with them. 

Leona was also a dear sister. She was preceded in death by her siblings Helen Patacca, Florence Erickson, Robert Janowick, and Gilbert Hillsinger. Leona is survived by her brother Carl Hillsinger and sister Linda Hillsinger. Her siblings remember her as a beacon of love and support, always there with a kind word or a helping hand.

As we mourn the loss of Leona, we also celebrate her life. We remember her as a loving wife, a dedicated mother, a doting grandmother, a caring sister, and a dear friend. While we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing that she will live on in our hearts forever. 

Family will receive friends at the Harry H. Witzke's Family Funeral Home, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, on Friday, September 22, 2023, from 11am - 1pm; where a funeral service will begin at 1pm. Interment following at St. John's Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leona Elizabeth Cope, please visit our floral store.