Leona C. Porter (nee McWilliams), age 79, of Williamstown, NJ, passed away on August 10th, 2026. 

For many years, Leona, known to her loved ones as Cookie, dedicated her career to helping others as a family therapist for Catholic Charities Diocese of Camden and a member of the child study team in the Vineland school district. She always provided an ear to listen, a hand to hold and a voice of reason to anybody who sought her advice. Leona loved the simple things in life like her morning tea, taking car rides to Batsto with her beloved Harry and a surprise visit by one of her children or grandchildren. She enjoyed spending her free time surrounded by family, reading and writing. She cherished bringing her whole family together at her home. Leona was the matriarch of her family and will be deeply missed. 

Loving daughter of the late Joseph and Leona McWilliams. Beloved wife of Harry J. Porter, Sr. Devoted mother of Harry J. Porter, Jr., Therese Marie Porter-Bannister (Tony) and Joseph Porter (Racquel). Dear sister of Theresa Budniak (Bill), Michael McWilliams (Donna), and Edward McWilliams. She is predeceased by her siblings Joseph McWilliams (the late Helen), Nancy Hickey (Daniel), her brother-in-law, Daniel Porter and her in laws, Harry and Violet Porter. Cherished grandmother of Justin Porter (Michelle), Derek Porter, Amanda Porter, Brittany Farrell (Ryan), Ashley Bannister (Adam), Tina Porter (Ryan), Brandon Porter (Rachel), Briana Bannister, Gabrielle Bannister, Tyler Bannister and Hunter Porter (Diamond). Dear sister-in law of Michelle Leonetti (Frank). Loving great grandmother of 9. Leona is also survived by many nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Saturday, August 15th, from 9:30 AM – 11:15 AM, at St. Mary’s Church/Our Lady of Peace Parish, S. Main St. & Carroll Ave., Williamstown, NJ. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 AM. Interment will take place privately.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Leona’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.