It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Leah Clem Nocé on the 26th of December, 2025. She was 59 years old.

Leah was born in Richmond, VA on December 6th, 1966, to Caroline Halstead and Russell Clem. She graduated from Western Branch High School in Chesapeake, VA in 1985. Thereafter, she attended Randolph-Macon College, earning a degree in Biology in 1989. During her time at Randolph-Macon Leah met her late husband, Jeff Nocé; they married in 1995 and later had two sons, Cole and Jack. For the last 30 years, she resided in Alexandria, VA. She led a successful professional career, including 19 years at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, where she most recently served as Director of Human Resources.

Those who knew Leah knew her as an exemplar of human kindness. Wherever she went, her jovial and kindhearted nature preceded her. Whether a stranger or a close friend, Leah was dependable, selfless, and provided a rare comfort not many could. She was an emotional rock, someone to lean on in times of uncertainty for her gracious, unyielding care and indomitable fortitude. Being an ardent lover of the outdoors, she found her happiness amongst the trees, along river banks, and on sandy beaches. A deep love of living creatures big and small fueled the lifelong curiosity she carried for the world around her. An indefatigable love of her sons outlined every action she took.

Leah is preceded in death by her husband Jeff Nocé, aunt Becky Cooley, and mother Caroline Halstead. She is survived by her sons, Jack Nocé and Cole Nocé, sister in-laws Jodi Nocé Donovan and husband George Donovan, Ginger Nocé and wife Kristy Kennedy, brothers David and Russell Clem, and dog Bo.

While her absence fills us with the deepest of sorrows, we are eternally grateful for the many wonderful memories she left us. It was her wish to be remembered in the moments that bring us joy, whether we are soaking up the sun on a beach, searching the name of a strange insect, or simply admiring the play of the wind through the treetops. Through moments like these we will know that she is with us still.

                                          Please join us for Leah's Celebration of Life service on Saturday, January 31st, 2:00 pm at:                                                                  Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA 22151