Leigh Fopma Ismael

Leigh Young Fopma Ismael, 97, of Cincinnati, Ohio passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025. Born on January 23, 1928, in Cincinnati, Leigh lived a long and vibrant life devoted to family, education, and faith.

Leigh married Robert Fopma in 1948, sharing a loving partnership of 53 years rooted deeply in faith, service, and community. Later in life, after Bob’s death, she found companionship and happiness once more when she married Walter Ismael in 2003, with whom she made many wonderful memories in their later years.

Leigh lived a life defined by her tenacity, care, and faithfulness. An educator, she taught kindergarten – 2nd grade and then both taught and supervised student teachers at the University of Cincinnati College of Education. She later ministered alongside Bob as Associates in Renewal and Equipping at College Hill Presbyterian Church. She touched countless lives through her Bible Study classes, continuing to teach until age 90.

She loved to travel, beginning with long camping trips when her children were young, and then on many cruises. She was an avid reader and enjoyed sewing and needlework. In her 80’s her creativity thrived as she discovered a newfound passion – oil painting.

Leigh believed her life was a story of God’s faith, hope, and love – an enduring testament reflected brightly in her compassionate actions, generosity and unwavering faithfulness.

She was predeceased by her parents, Hodson and Esther Young, and husbands Robert Fopma and Walter Ismael. She leaves a sister – Esther Spencer; three children – Cate Fopma Greer (Gary), Joan Fopma Loy (David) and Robert Fopma (Kelly); 9 grandchildren – Nick (Vanessa), Drew (Lea), Kirby (Jay), Bryan (Emily), Kyle (Mimi), Sean (Amanda), Alex (Yessery), Zachary, and Caitlin; as well as 6 great-grandchildren – Isabella, Hudson, Camden, Brooklyn, Phoenix and Jackson; as well as nieces and nephews.

Leigh leaves a legacy of inspiration, encouragement, and deep faith.

Friends and loved ones are warmly invited to celebrate Leigh’s remarkable life on Saturday, June 14th, at 1:00 p.m. in the Twin Towers Retirement Community Chapel. A reception and visitation with the family will immediately follow the service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Twin Towers Benevolent Fund.