Obituary of Leslie James Sturdevant

Leslie James Sturdevant
September 5, 1938 – May 15, 2025

Leslie James Sturdevant, 86, of Burlington, Massachusetts, passed peacefully on May 15, 2025, at Massachusetts General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family and the legacy of a life deeply well-lived.

Born on September 5, 1938, in Greenville, New York, raised in Acton, Massachusetts, son of Leslie and Amelia. Les built a life rooted in dedication to his family, his work, and his unwavering moral compass. Devoted 43 years to Raytheon, he served as a respected leader and mechanical engineer, where he contributed to the Patriot and Hawk Missile Programs. Though humble about his accomplishments, Les took great pride in knowing his efforts helped in Raytheon’s success.

Raised from simple roots, Les believed in the power of hard work, self-reliance and simplicity. He was a consistent fixer and builder, with a garage that was a treasure trove of tools and spare parts, always ready for the next project. 

He shared 56 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patricia Ann (Coveno) Sturdevant of Arlington, Massachusetts. Together, they weathered all of life’s seasons—joys and heartbreaks alike—with steady hands and open hearts. Leslie was predeceased by his cherished sons, James and Scott, losses that never dimmed his spirit but deepened his level of empathy.

A dream realized, in 1984, Les and Pat purchased a cottage on Merrymeeting Lake in New Durham, New Hampshire. Over time, that modest retreat grew into a warm and welcoming home that became the heart of the Sturdevant family. For more than 40 years, “The Lake House” was a place of joy, where generations gathered to make memories with family. Les found his peace there, surrounded by nature and the people he loved most.

Les will be remembered for his many admirable qualities: resourcefulness, kind, respectful, reserved yet thoughtful, giving, and nonjudgmental. He was a quiet anchor—a steady, guiding presence in the lives of his family and friends. He listened with patience, offered wisdom without judgment, and led by example in everything he did.

Someone said of Les: “He loved well and generously.” That simple truth speaks volumes about the man he was. His love, strength, and spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those lucky enough to know him.

He is survived by his sons and their families: Mark and Helen Sturdevant of Reno, NV; Keith and Maria Sturdevant of Burlington, MA; and Tom and Cindy Grande of Boxford, MA. “Grandpa” was a role he wore with pride and tenderness. His grandchildren—Meghan Linnane and her husband Patrick, Sydney Sturdevant, Mackenzie Sturdevant and her fiancée Christopher Dwyer, Samantha Sturdevant, Julianna MacAdams, Lily Sturdevant, Ella Logan, Chloe Grande, Zack Grande, and Alex Smiros, were the lights of his life. He also leaves behind four great-grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy: Emma, Audree, and Michael Linnane, and Charlie Jackson.

He was a beloved uncle and father figure to many, including Debra, JD, Steven, Linda, Jimmy, Jerry, Ricky, Amy, Lori, Lenny and warmly regarded by their children as well.

A quiet philanthropist, Leslie was a devoted supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Humane Society, causes that reflected both his heart and values. His love for animals, especially dogs. Teaching us unconditional love traits they shared together. He is survived by his sweet girl, Izzie, and is no doubt joyfully reunited in the afterlife with Eli, Rudy, Luther, Aisha and Maggie, whose paws he never truly let go of.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Wednesday, May 21 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Following the services, relatives and friends are invited to join Les’s family at the Fairways at the Woburn Country Club, 5 Country Club Rd, Woburn from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. to honor and celebrate Leslie’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to remember Leslie in your own way: with a quiet act of kindness, memorials in Les’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. www.stjude.org, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the MSPCA Angel, www.mspca.org, 350 South Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130, or a moment of stillness by the water—preferably with a loyal dog by your side.

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net