Obituary of Leigh Elizabeth Anderson

Leigh Elizabeth Anderson, age 65, of Buffalo, New York, passed away on Monday July 6, 2020 in Buffalo. Leigh was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 31, 1954. She graduated from St Joseph’s Ursuline Academy in 1972 in Malone, NY; earned her Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Iowa in 1976 and her Juris Doctorate degree from Syracuse University in 1979. She had a private law practice in Buffalo for 41 years. In 2016 she was awarded the prestigious Honorable Michael Dillon Attorney for Children Award from the Appellate Division of the State of NY. Leigh was a prominent legal presence in Buffalo. Entering each courtroom stylishly and elegantly dressed, she was unwaveringly well prepared and passionate in her presentation. Recalling seeing Leigh in action in the courtroom, Erie County Family Court Judge Sharon Lovallo said, “Leigh Anderson was a skilled litigator and fierce advocate for her clients, but it was her compassion that set her apart from other attorneys.” Family Court Judge Mary Carney observed “Leigh had unparalleled legal acumen coupled with a heart bigger than all of Buffalo.” Leigh is survived by her sisters, Lillian Anderson-Duffy (Frank) of Malone, Lorraine Anderson (Michael Kirst) of Buffalo and Lynne Anderson (Jim Steiner) of Albany. She is also survived by her nieces Allison Wareham and Aeren Ellen Duke and her nephew Alexander Kirst. She was preceded in death by her parents, G. Bruce Anderson and Marjorie O’Connor Anderson. A private graveside service burial will be held in Fort Covington, NY with a memorial service to be determined. Donations can be made in Leigh’s name to Compass House 1451 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209 or compasshouse.org/donations. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brusofuneralservice.com. Arrangements are through the Bruso-Desnoyers Funeral Service, Inc. in Malone, NY.