Walter Leigh Haines
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Walter Leigh Haines, who left us on August 11, 2025. Walter was a beloved husband, father, and friend, known for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor.
Born in Philadelphia on December 11, 1940, to George W. and Kathryn Haines, Walter lived a life full of love and dedication. He graduated from Central High School in Class 210 and earned an associate’s degree in accounting from Gloucester County Community College. Walter served four years as a private second class in the Air Force. On April 24, 1965, he married his beloved wife, Marie Catherine Haines.
Walter worked for the Department of Defense on Nike Missiles in Philadelphia before joining the Federal Aviation Administration in 1974 and moving to Roanoke, VA. He retired in 2004 after many years of service as an electronics technician.
He was an active member of Northminster Presbyterian Church, where he was ordained as a deacon and elder in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Walter was also active for many years in the Presbyterian Pilgrimage Community. After retirement, he served as part of the builder’s club with Habitat for Humanity of the Roanoke Valley.
Walter loved to travel, read, listen to music, and engage in woodworking, photography, and cooking. He was very active throughout his life, enjoying jogging, bike riding, hiking, and camping. He was a devoted husband and father, and a faithful Christian.
Walter is preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother George P. Haines. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marie Catherine Haines; his children, Marie McGowan (Michael), Kathryn Haines, and Kenneth Haines (Brenda Browning); his brother Kenneth J. Haines; and his grandchildren, Heather McGowan (Taylor Figura), Benjamin Haines, Patrick McGowan (Rachel Parker), Jane Haines, and Sarah Haines.
A service of witness to the resurrection will be held on Wednesday, August 13 at 1 pm at Northminster Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Dr. Russ Merritt and Rev. Dr. David Kirk. He will be entombed at a later date at the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in a small service with family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Presbyterian Community Center, Habitat for Humanity of the Roanoke Valley, or Good Samaritan Hospice, who lovingly cared for Walter during the last eight months of his life.
Walter Leigh Haines will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Chapel. (540)366-0707.
