Ms. Leshia Utsey
(December 7, 1963 - September 2, 2026)
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Oh Leshia, you will be missed. Your smile lit up every room you graced🙏🏽💜
Aunt Leshia was the best godmother I could ever ask. She always supported my passions, but when I switched from STEM to journalism in college, she became a guiding and much needed influence in navigating the field.
Every step of the way, she made sure I handled myself professionally and with journalistic integrity. She told my mom how proud she was of me doing what I love in Idaho.
I’m glad I got to see her one last time. Rest easy, Aunt Leshia. I love you, and thank you for believing in me.
I am thankful for the blessing of getting to know Leshia as a colleague, a friend and a confidant. She was insightful, trustworthy, gifted and strong in her spiritual relationship with God. Now, my dear friend you have earned your wings with the highest commendation “Well done my good and faithful servant, Come on in and take your rest.”
I am thankful for the blessing of getting to know Leisha as a colleague, a friend and a confidant. She was insightful, trustworthy, gifted and strong in her spiritual relationship with God. Now, my dear friend you have earned your wings with the highest commendation “Well done my good and faithful servant, Come on in and take your rest.”
Leshia, my Facebook friend, whom I saw too little of in person. I fell in love with her spirit, smile and compassionate heart. I will miss you, dear friend! Oh, when the trumpet sounds!
Leshia was my very first boss when I graduated undergrad, and I could not have asked for a more worldly experience. Under her leadership, I learned how to navigate and hone my public relations skills which have laid the foundation for my successful 18 years in public relations. The Leshia Utsey University was NOT for the faint of heart! I lovingly called her Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada, because she laid the hammer on us numerous times. But everything I learned while working for the City of Columbia has played a significant part in the professional I am today. She challenged me, while letting me spread my wings.
I last saw her about a year ago when I was attending a city council meeting. As I walked in she yells, “I know you’re not going to walk by me and not speak.” When I walked over she congratulated me on my accomplishments and told me she was proud of me. I scarily asked, “Can I give you a hug?” She laughed and said, “Of course crazy! Don’t be silly!” We hugged and laughed.
Rest well Leshia; I hope you ail no more.
My heartfelt condolences to Leshia’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
Leshia was truly a special person and an extraordinary professional. She had a rare gift for taking an idea and turning it into something bigger and better than you ever imagined. During my time on City Council, I could say, “Hey, I want to do this,” and before I knew it, Leshia had taken that idea, added her creativity and talent, and brought it to life in an amazing way.
She was incredibly gifted, one of a kind, and a joy to work with. Her talent and presence will be deeply missed.
I enjoyed working with Leisha while I served on city council. She helped me through press conferences and gave me guidance when I needed it. She will be missed.
Leshia was a wonderful person who did an outstanding job with the City of Columbia for many years. She was a close friend and adviser to me when I was Mayor.