Obituary of Leslie Joanne Day

Leslie Joanne Day, 63, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont, after a long and determined battle with breast cancer. Born on December 14, 1961, in Lake Placid, New York, to Alice (Sears) Day and Thomas G. Day II, Leslie carried the spirit of her hometown throughout her life. Although she made Burlington her home beginning in 1984, Lake Placid—with its natural beauty and deep family roots—always held her heart. A graduate of Lake Placid High School, Class of 1980, Leslie's love for theater, athletics, and community life took shape early. She pursued that passion at SUNY Plattsburgh, studying theater while honing her leadership skills through the Greek organization for excellence in theater-Alpha Psi Omega, the Student Technical Association, the College Theatre Association, and the Campus Arts Council, before embarking on a lifelong career in the performing arts. Leslie's contributions to the Burlington arts community were profound. She was a founding member of IATSE Local #919, where she devoted herself to leadership and mentorship over decades of service. Her artistry and technical mastery illuminated countless productions at the Flynn Theater, with the Vermont Mozart Festival, First Night Burlington, and numerous other venues and events. Leslie's dedication to her craft was evident in her attention to detail and her love of light, color, and collaboration. Her talents took her around the world with the Trisha Brown Dance Company, and later with her beloved Salzburg Marionette Theatre; companies and communities she cherished deeply. Leslie is survived by life partner of 32 years, Sheryl Eddy; mother, Alice Day; brothers, Thomas Day III (Patty) and Terrance Day; niece, Kailee Day; sisters-in-law Susan Eddy (Beth Rogers) and Stacy Gordon (Dusty); nephew Thomas Gordon, niece Katrina Gordon; cousins Ed Decker (Becky), Marty Decker and many other cousins. She was predeceased by her father, Thomas Day II; uncles Roland (Rolly) Sears Jr. and Robert (Bob) Sears (Andrea); aunt Anita Decker; and by our much-loved companion, Leko, "truly the best dog ever." A celebration of Leslie's life will be announced at a later date, offering family and friends the opportunity to gather, share memories, and honor her life. Interment will be in the North Elba Cemetery in Lake Placid, New York In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Leslie's memory to your favorite performing arts organization. Leslie's brilliance, humor, and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 25th at 1:00 PM at North Elba Cemetery, Lake Placid. Rev. John Yonkovig will officiate. The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid, NY is in charge of local arrangements. Relatives and friends are invited to share a memory, prayer or leave online condolences at www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com. To access the online obituary in Seven Days Newspaper, Burlington VY please visit: https://www.sevendaysvt.com/life-lines/obituaries/obituary-leslie-day-1961-2025/