Leslie had many passions and knew early on in life that she needed to feed those passions. Driven by her love of author Jane Austen’s romantic depictions of life in 18th century England, Leslie spent 6 months touring London and the English countryside. By late summer of 1983 she had worked her way to Israel where she worked temporarily in a Kibbutz before returning home. In 2000 she explored New Zealand.
Leslie was in the retail book business for 30 plus years. During those years she worked for Miller & Paine and Nebraska Bookstore, Nebraska Press, managed the UNL/Follett East Campus Bookstore, and was a representative for a New York publishing company in Foster City, CA.
Following her retirement from the book business, Leslie received a Certification in Gerontology from UNMC. For several years she delighted in sharing her love of reading and travel with the residents at the Bickford of Lincoln in her position as an activities director. Leslie was a fervent volunteer and supporter for the Democratic Party, Women’s Rights, the LGBTQ community, KZUM, and NPR. A Master Gardener, she worked in the seasonal flowers departments for Earl May and Home Depot.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Gayle and Margaret Roper, brother, Darrell, brother-in-law, Larry Ferrell. Survivors include her sister, Gail Ferrell of Murrieta, California, nephews Tony Ferrell and Gabriel Ferrell, nieces, Kristin Ferrell and Amanda Ferrell Russell of Worthing, England. Also mourning her passing are a multitude of friends, coworkers, and adoring feral cats.
Per her request, there will be no services. Cremation.
Memorials to The Cat House Animal Shelter, 3633 O St, Lincoln NE 68510 or NPR, 1800 North 33rd St., Lincoln, NE 68503.