Leffler, Timothy

Timothy Leffler, DisAbility and Social Justice Advocate, 51, died August 5, 2017 of a heart attack and complications of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitis. He was born July 2, 1966 to Margaret and Ralph Leffler in Iowa. Survivors include his family in Iowa: mother Margaret Sue Ashley, Urbandale; father, Ralph; sisters Connie Adreon, Des Moines and Donna Ashley, Ankeny; and brother Danny Ashley, Des Moines. Tim attended Drake University and Arizona State to study voice, where he performed in many of ASU’s Lyric Opera Theatre productions. He worked at the ASU School of Music for 15 years. Tim performed often as a professional soloist around the Valley, and was a member of the Grammy-winning Phoenix Chorale for over 10 years, appearing on many of their award-winning recordings. Tim was a staff singer at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral for many years, where he also conducted the Compline Choir. An activist for social justice, particularly health care and disability rights, Tim served on the State Medicaid and Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System Advisory Committees, and on committees for health, wellness, and disability concerns for the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona and Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. He is remembered by all for his positive attitude, sense of humor, care for others, love of music, and beautiful voice. Timothy’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service on Sunday, October 1, at 5:00 pm at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Phoenix. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Timothy’s memory to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral or the Phoenix Chorale.