Leona Adele Wamsley

Leona Adele Wamsley, a vibrant spirit born on January 10, 1990, in Buckhannon, West Virginia, left this world on January 29, 2026, in Burlington, Vermont. At the young age of 36, Leona's journey was filled with remarkable achievements and deep connections to those she cherished.

A proud graduate of Montpelier High School in 2008, Leona pursued her passion for justice by attending Burlington College, where she earned her paralegal certificate in 2015. She dedicated her career to the Vermont Chittenden County District Attorney Office, where her tenacity and fierce spirit made her a respected figure among her colleagues. Leona navigated the challenges of her profession with exceptional resolve, ultimately leaving her post in 2025 over political matters. Though her departure marked a significant change, she held her head high, steadfast in her moral convictions. In hindsight, it was not just a career decision, but a reaffirmation of her values that defined her.

Friends and family would describe Leona as quirky, funny, and fiercely independent. She had an unparalleled ability to light up a room, never allowing anyone to pull a fast one on her. Her authenticity was one of her defining traits, earning her love and admiration from everyone who crossed her path.

Leona was a devoted mother to her two beloved children, Halen Wamsley and Donovan Rossi, and she shared a deep bond with his father, John Rossi. Her children were her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent laughing, singing, and dancing with them. Whether they were splashing at waterparks or engaging in joyous family outings, Leona made sure their lives were filled with excitement and happiness.

In addition to her role as a mother, Leona's warmth extended to her family. She is survived by her parents, Janice Rollins and Dion Wamsley, and his wife Nancy. She shared a special connection with her brother, Lloyd Rollins, and cherished the bonds with her many aunts and uncles Julie Hyre, Ronnie Rollins and his wife Bobby Jo, Ricky Rollins,  Debbie Kelly and her husband Tom, Timmy Wamsley and his wife Candy, Mike Wamsley and his wife Jackie, and Kelley Medlar and many cousins. Each of them holds fond memories of her laughter and spirit.

While Leona's life was tragically cut short due to medical complications, the impact of her presence will echo in the hearts of all who knew her. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Luke Wamsley and Anna Wamsley, and her grandparents Joyce and Ronald Rollins, Sr  and Rachel and Ronsdale Wamsley, and her uncles Robbie Rollins, Nick Hyre and Rocky Wamsley  whose memories she carried with her in everything she did.

As we remember Leona Adele Wamsley, let us celebrate the joy she brought into our lives, the strength she exhibited, and the love she shared so generously. May her legacy of kindness and integrity inspire us to honor her memory in our own lives.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 3-5pm in the Minor Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 237 Route 7 South, Milton.