Lesley Ann Cassady, 54, of Dunnellon, Florida, formally Mansfield, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness on September 17th, 2026, surrounded by her family. Lesley was born on May 29th, 1972, in Mansfield, Ohio to the late Wesley and Frances Harrington. She was also preceded in death by her father-in-law, Paul Cassady, mother-in-law, Ida Cassady, brother-in law’s Donald Crowder & James Scott Cassady, and nephew, Jackson Schmitt.

On July 18th, 1992, she married the love of her life, Thomas Edward Cassady. The two of them shared 34 beautiful years of marriage, building a life and family that meant everything to her. Thomas survives her, alongside her children, Laura, Colton (Stephanie), Sara (Matteson), and Kelsey (Alexandrea); her grandchildren, Laynae, Sophia, Noah, Zoey, and Olivia; her sisters, Kathy (Jason) and Tonya; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members; her beloved dog, Pebbles, and grandpups, Dunkin and Dottie whom she loved to spoil.

For 25 years, Lesley dedicated her career to nursing. Caring for people was more than her profession, it was who she was. She had a way of being there when someone needed her, whether that meant providing care, listening, offering reassurance, or reminding those she loved that they were doing a good job. Lesley made every occasion feel like a celebration. She would show up with special cards for everyone, with stickers and handwritten notes. She took her time with the gifts she gave and ensured that they were tailored perfectly to who they were going to. She loved getting the family together in matching outfits, having fun photo shoots, painting seashells together, and relaxing in each other’s company. To the world she was “Lesley.” To the people she loved the most, she went by many titles. Some of her favorites were; Mom, Mimi, and Gram. Her children and grandchildren were her whole world, and she poured herself into making that known. Lesley poured that same care into the home she shared with Tom. She was creative, and spent countless weekends thrifting and transforming everyday finds into true works of art. Every room had a theme, lovingly filled with what she simply called her “pretties.” She had a rare gift for making daily life a little more magical and a lot more beautiful. If you stopped by on a quiet evening, you’d likely find her finishing up one of her latest projects out on the lanai, or settled comfortably in her recliner, painting her nails right beside Tom.

In 2021, she and Tom chased their dreams and made the move to Florida. The past five chapters of her life were a mix of sunshine and adventure. She and her family enjoyed boat trips, collecting shells at the beach, kayaking the springs, cruises, theme parks, golf cart rides and more. She embraced every single moment with a bright spirit, living a deeply happy life in the Sunshine State. Lesley was the foundation of her family. Her kindness, strength, compassion, and devotion will continue through her children and grandchildren. She was deeply loved, and she will be deeply missed. Her family will carry her love with them always, until they are together again.

Please take a moment to think of Lesley the next time you see a sunflower, hear a country song, smell a home cooked meal, taste the salty beach air, or feel a warm hug from someone you love.

The family would like to recognize the incredible Neuro ICU team at HCA Ocala Florida Hospital. They went above and beyond in their care for Lesley. They treated her with kindness, respect and dignity. The family couldn’t have asked for a better team of doctors, nurses and staff.

A casual gathering for family and friends will be held on Saturday, September 26th, 2026 at Roberts Funeral Home of Dunnellon. Viewing will begin at 10:00am with services immediately following at 11:00am.