After a long illness, Robert “Rabbit” Leighton, 77, died on March 24, 2024 in Sewickley, Pa.
where he had spent most of his life.
Serving as class president in his senior year at South Kent, Rob is remembered by his
classmates for his humor, ever-present good cheer, and his dramatic skills as the romantic,
“on-the-make” Ensign Pulver character in Mr. Roberts, directed by “Doc” Whittemore.
A few years later, Rob was to join the US Navy, serving in Vietnam aboard the USS Henderson.
Following his military service and graduation from Kenyon College, Rob began a 40-year
career, working at Steelite, a growing business that has since become Steelite
International, a manufacturer of dinnerware. Rob’s business interests did not exclude his
roles as husband and father of three children, Scott, Frances and Christine.
Beyond work and family, Rob supported many local charities, serving as a member of the
Quaker Valley School board and the Sewickley Presbyterian Church.
May Robert rest in peace.