Leonard Thomas Zandy

January 10, 1932 - September 27, 2021
Leonard Thomas Zandy

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Leonard Thomas Zandy, 89, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 27, 2021 at home with his family by his side.

Tommy was born January 10, 1932 in Saint Helena, NC to August Lewis Zandy and Lottie Ramsey Zandy.

He was predeceased by his parents and brothers Charles Zandy, Robert Zandy, and Stephen Zandy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years Julia Langston Zandy; daughters Angela Mahaffey Slagle (Brian), Elizabeth Mahaffey Daniels (Donnie); grandchildren Alexa Leigh Warner, Caroline Warner, Carter Daniels, Foster Slagle, Colton Daniels; sister Jean Fidler; nephew Rick Fidler.

Tommy proudly served his country in the US Coast Guard from 1952-1956, aboard the USCGC Westwind. His Coast Guard service included crossing the Artic Circle, which brought lots of good stories and memories about his time spent on the Westwind. After his discharge, he returned home to care for his family and to begin a lifelong career with the NCDOT as a landscape supervisor. After 45 years with the DOT, Tommy retired in 1998. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a part of the initial NC DOT Wildflower Program that was founded in 1985.

His proudest moments were those spent with his family. From fishing with his grandson to spreading his knowledge about birds, flowers and how to fix anything with materials you have. He was a true craftsman building everything from birdhouses to barns.

His two daughters were his pride and joy. Being cast into a family of two teenagers at the age of 47 was something most would never sign up for, but Tommy not only accepted the challenge, but he became a true dad in every sense of the word.

He was a simple and quiet man who was always thankful for the many blessings he was given. His love of Pender County was never ending and we always heard, when urging him to travel, “Why would I go anywhere; I haven’t seen all of Pender County yet!”

Tommy was a lifelong member of Burgaw Baptist Church for over 74 years and was recently recognized as the oldest continuous active member of the church. He was a true believer, and his faith in God was insurmountable. He lived his life by faith and God’s word.

We will forever miss our T.Z., Pop, Poppy! You will always be remembered for your gentle soul and endless love of your wife, children, grandchildren, and many friends.

The family thanks each one of his devoted friends for all the calls, cards, and prayers, most especially everyone at Burgaw Baptist Church. And finally, a very special thank you to Heidi Crosby, his caregiver, for the exceptional care, love, and kindness in his final months.

Rest in Peace our Poppy….We love you the Most!

A memorial service will be held 2pm Friday, October 15, 2021 at Burgaw Baptist Church, burial to follow at Burgaw Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to Burgaw Baptist Church in honor of Tommy.

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • September 28, 2021
    Herbert Harrell says:
    Julia, Angie and Elizabeth, so sorry for for your loss he was a special man, always kind. May God bring you peace and comfort.

  • October 13, 2021
    Lisa Wells says:
    Julia, I know you will miss your Tommy. Hold on to the memories and share them often with your family and keep Tommy alive in your hearts. I love you all.

  • October 13, 2021
    Bob Hack and Jackie Daniels-Hack says:
    Julia my heartfelt condolences go out to you, Angie, Sis, and families. The grand children were so special to him. Rest in piece always.

  • October 13, 2021
    Bob Hack and Jackie Daniels-Hack says:
    What is this. What do I do?

  • September 29, 2021
    Donna Mckoy Murphrey says:
    Dear Julia and Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tommy was a special man, in the ways he took care of Aunt Lottie and all his family. He had that quiet assurance of faith, he didn't have to tell you, it showed in his daily life. God Bless you!