Leslie "Les" Fernandez III, a beloved soul known for his quick wit, warm smile and generous spirit,passed away peacefully on Oct. 15, 2026, surrounded by his cherished family. Born in 1953, in the Bronx, New York, Les was the treasured son of Leslie Jr. and Natalie Fernandez.
Les' life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter and an insatiable curiosity for the world around him. He spent his formative years in Yonkers, New York, and was a graduate of Roosevelt High School. His keen intellect and passion for chemistry led him to a successful career as an independent chemist for over three decades, during which he secured several patents. Les was renowned for his innovative thinking and his ability to think 'outside the box.'
On September 24, 1994, Les married the love of his life, Patricia Gleason. Together they embarked on a journey that would span 38 magnificent years, creating a home filled with warmth, love and laughter. Patricia was his steadfast companion, and their bond was a testament to enduring love.
Les was a devoted parishioner at Saint Columbanus Church in Cortlandt Manor, where he cultivated a strong sense of community and faith. His hobbies and interests were as diverse as his personality; he was an avid chess player, a fan of the New York Rangers, and a bowling enthusiast. His fascination with numbers led him to spend countless hours working on his computer, always seeking the highest prime number.
A man of undeniable charisma, Les had a gift for storytelling and a natural ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued. His kind and generous nature was a beacon of light to all who knew him. Whether sharing a joke to lighten the mood or engaging in heartfelt conversations, Les left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Les leaves behind his devoted wife, Patricia, with whom he shared an extraordinary life. He was predeceased by his brother, Don Fernandez, and his nephew Eric Fernandez. He is survived by his brother Richard, sister Lanette (Sirignano), George, nephew Don Fernandez Jr. The legacy of love and kindness he leaves behind is a testament to the profound impact he made on the lives of his family and friends.
The visitation is to be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026 between the hours of 4:00pm – 8:00pm at Clark & Giordano Funeral Home located at 2104 Saw Mill River Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Les' remarkable life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 11:00am at Saint Columbanus Church, located at 122 Oregon Road, Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 10 W. Stevens Avenue, Hawthorne, NY.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Les' memory.
Les' laughter, love and kindness will resonate in the hearts of those he touched forever. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to have known him. May he rest in peace.
Information provided by Clark & Giordano Funeral Home
