Chandler “Leigh” Shapleigh Richardson, beloved father, friend, colleague, and local musician, died at his home in Punta Gorda, Florida at the age of 62 after battling cancer.
Leigh Richardson
Leigh was born at Norwalk Hospital on February 21, 1963 to the late Chandler S. and Jacqueline Richardson. He is survived by his sister, Aimee Harkins of New Canaan, CT and his three children; Chelsea Richardson of Lincoln, Nebraska, Megan Richardson of Monroe, Connecticut, and Michael Richardson of Manchester, Connecticut.
As a young man growing up in New Canaan, Connecticut, Leigh taught himself how to play guitar. He became a music staple at local bars and restaurants in the Fairfield county area. He was also an Eagle Scout and an enthusiastic skier.
In the late 1980’s Leigh married his childhood friend and neighbor, Kathy Ward, and they had three children together.
Leigh and Kathy moved to Tokyo, Japan in the early 1990’s to allow Leigh to pursue his budding business career with IBM. He went on to work for several industry leading companies and became a highly successful customer relationship management expert.
From the mid 2000’s until the end of his life, Leigh returned to his passion for playing music and could often be seen singing and playing guitar at local bars and restaurants as well as at events with colleagues, family, and friends. At the end of his life Leigh moved to Punta Gorda, Florida in order to enjoy the warm climate and beautiful scenery. While he lived there, he enjoyed many good times with his large circle of local friends.
Leigh passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025 surrounded by his family and people who loved him. He is and will continue to be dearly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 16 at 1:00pm at the United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Avenue, Norwalk, CT.