Leona Broker Obituary

May 8, 1929 - August 4, 2025
Leona Mae Broker, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, at the age of 96 in Winter Haven, Florida. Born on May 8, 1929, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, to John and Mary Sequeira, Leona's journey through life was marked by her unwavering love for family and her deep commitment to nurturing the next generation.
In 1958, Leona made the bold decision to move to Florida, where she would go on to create a warm and welcoming home that became a haven for many. She often said she "raised a village," a testament to her nurturing spirit and the profound impact she had on the lives of her children and grandchildren. Leona's love for children was evident in every aspect of her life, whether she was working as a nanny, caring for the children of teachers, or dedicating her time to the school system. Her kindness and compassion touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Leona was preceded in death by her parents, her two husbands, Donald MacDonald in 1956 and Joseph Broker in 2000, her son John Broker, and her siblings, Dorothy Winter, John Sequeira, and Edmund Sequeira. She leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, survived by her five children: Marion Young, Anne Bresset, Don MacDonald, Cathy Benoit, and Patrick Broker. Leona was also a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren, a loving great-grandmother to twelve great-grandchildren, and a delighted great-great-grandmother to one great-great-granddaughter.
Leona's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and countless memories. Her strong will and feisty determination helped her thrive to the age of 96 living by herself until the last month of her life. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will carry her spirit in their hearts forever. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date, where all who knew and loved her are invited to share their memories and honor the remarkable woman she was.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Compassionate Care Hospice.