Leo Elias Solomon, 93, the former Superintendent of the Wilkes-Barre Area School
District, peacefully passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024. In recognition of his
extensive career devoted to education and his years of dedicated service to the Wilkes-
Barre community, Leo was honored with the naming of the Leo E. Solomon-Plains
Elementary School, an ongoing testament to his lasting impact and legacy.
Leo was born on March 7, 1931, in Wilkes-Barre, to the late Samuel and Najoum (nee
Namey) Solomon. He received his primary education in the public schools of Wilkes-
Barre and later graduated from Elmer L. Meyers High School. Leo pursued higher
education, obtaining a B.S. Degree from Wilkes College, an M.S. from the University of
Scranton, and his Superintendent’s certificate from Lehigh University.
Leo was married to the late Margaret Solomon (née Brenish), the love of his life, and
together they were blessed with three children: Leo (Philadelphia), George (Los
Angeles), and Jacqueline (Wilkes-Barre). He was a devoted member of St. Mary’s
Antiochian Orthodox Church, where he served as Board President for several years.
Leo cherished his role as a father and was deeply involved in his community. He was
preceded in death by his brothers, Abe (Murph), Joseph (O.J.), and George (Harry), as
well as his sisters, Naphie and Mary. Leo was a cherished uncle to numerous nieces
and nephews including Joseph Solomon (Kathy), Dr. Sam Solomon (Karen), Pam
Peters, Michele Robshaw (Jack), Albert Peters (Nancy), Carol Skiba (Anthony Farhat).
He was also well loved by all of their children.
In 1976, Leo assumed the esteemed position of Superintendent of the Wilkes-Barre
Area School District, a role he passionately served until his retirement in 1993. Prior to
his tenure as Superintendent, Leo held various influential positions within the
educational realm. He served as a distinguished teacher and wrestling and football
coach at Coughlin High School, as well as Elementary School Principal at Dana and
Dodson Elementary schools. Additionally, Leo contributed his expertise as Assistant
Director of Elementary Curriculum and Assistant to the Superintendent, showcasing his
unwavering commitment to enhancing the educational landscape.
Leo's dedication to community service was extensive and left a significant impact. He
served as President of the City Demonstration Agency (Model Cities) for three years,
demonstrating strong leadership and commitment. During the devastating Hurricane
Agnes flood in 1972, Leo selflessly volunteered his services, managing the G.A.R
shelter and providing essential aid to those affected. Furthermore, he represented the
region by participating at a telethon hosted by Bob Hope, which contributed to the
fundraising efforts for the flood victims of the Wyoming Valley. Leo's involvement
extended to many boards and committees, including the Red Cross, Wilkes-Barre City
Drug and Alcohol Committee, Luzerne County Committee on Violence, United Way of
Wyoming Valley (Co-chair of Education Division), and Luzerne County Human Services
Board. Notably, he served as President of the Children’s Service Center of Wyoming
Valley, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his beloved
community.
Leo received multiple awards through the years including but not limited to an Honorary
Doctorate from LCCC, the American Red Cross award for service during the 1972 flood,
the John Heinz Allied services award for helping to develop a handicapped sports
program, and the Wilkes University George Ralston Lifetime Career Achievement
Award.
The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional medical teams at
Wesley Village Rehabilitation facility and the dedicated nursing staff at Geisinger
Wyoming Valley Hospital.
Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 12 at Mamary-Durkin Funeral &
Cremation Services, 59 Parrish St., Wilkes-Barre.
The funeral service will commence at 11:30 am on Saturday, April 13, at Mamary-Durkin
Funeral & Cremation Services, followed by the funeral ceremony at 12 noon at St.
Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his name to St.
Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church, located at 905 S. Main St., Wilkes-Barre.
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