Leon J. Colavita

Leon J. Colavita, age 87, of Hilton Head Island, SC passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025. Leon was born in Trenton, NJ on July 18, 1938, to the late Leon and Vita (Immordino) Colavita.

Leon was a lifelong resident of Lawrenceville and a graduate of Trenton High School, Class of ‘56. Leon proudly served his country in the US Army. He graduated from Trenton State College, where he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He was employed by the New Jersey Department of Education as a program specialist and had an accomplished career. Leon coached youth soccer, basketball, and baseball while serving in many civic and charitable organizations, including the Lawrence Jaycees, Hamnett Soccer, and finally, as Mayor of Lawrenceville.

Leon married Elizabeth (Betty) Anne Lewis in 2000, and they resided happily in Hilton Head, SC through 2025. They enjoyed traveling, golfing, and spending time with family and friends. Leon enthusiastically traveled countless miles to his grandchildren’s games, school events, graduations, and most recently a wedding.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister Kathleen Woolston (Ron); and his son Chris (Mika). He is survived by his wife, Betty; his daughter Katy Simonowich (Keith); his son Keith (Paula); stepsons Jim Lewis and Ken Lewis (Cori); 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by many nieces, nephews, sisters and brothers-in law, and other cherished family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at The Church of St. Ann, 1253 Lawrence Rd. Lawrenceville, NJ at 10:30 am. Visitation will precede the Mass from 9:30 to10:30 am at the church. Inurnment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Leon’s memory to the Christopher J. Colavita Scholarship Fund- 2 Ashwood Court, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648 or a charity of your choice. A special thanks to the staff at The Palmettos of Bluffton- Memory Care Facility and Hospice Care of the LowCountry.