David P. Leys ’51

David P. Leys ’51, of Middletown, R.I.; Apr. 2. He had a 50-year career as president and owner of Leys Century Store, the family business his father started in 1912. Additionally, he served as president and chairman of the board of trustees of BankNewport, was a lifelong parishioner and trustee for St. Mary’s Church, served on the board of trustees and was interim CEO of The Preservation Society of Newport County, was president of the Newport County Chamber of Commerce, volunteered on the Middletown Beach Commission, ran the Newport Downtown Merchants Decoration Committee, and was the longest serving volunteer fireman on the Newport Fire Department, having served with distinction for more than 50 years. He helped re-establish the Newport Fireman’s Relief Assoc. and was recognized for his service to the community as a recipient of the Newport Daily News Community Service Award and Jefferson Award for volunteer service from WJAR Channel 10 in 2017. He enjoyed sailing and playing tennis. He is survived by his wife, Judy; six children and their spouses; 15 grandchildren; and brother Bill Leys ’50.