Remembering Elliot Leonard: 

A Life of Generosity, Courage, and Hope

On June 6, 2026, our LGBTQ+ community lost one of its most devoted champions with the passing of Elliot Leonard. To many, Elliot was a philanthropist, advocate, and founder of the Leonard-Litz Foundation. To those fortunate enough to know him personally, he was family, a trusted mentor, a loyal friend, and a man whose kindness, generosity, and quiet strength transformed countless lives.

Elliot believed every LGBTQ+ person deserved to live with dignity, safety, and the opportunity to thrive. Throughout his life, he invested in organizations, leaders, and programs that strengthened our community—not for recognition, but because he believed lifting others was simply the right thing to do.

His generosity extended far beyond financial support. Elliot shared his time, wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in people. He had a remarkable ability to recognize potential in others, often before they saw it in themselves. He inspired leaders, nurtured organizations, and reminded us that meaningful change always begins with compassion.

Together with his beloved husband and partner of more than five decades, Roger Litz, Elliot created the Leonard-Litz Foundation to ensure philanthropy would become a lasting force for LGBTQ+ equality. Under his leadership, the Foundation has awarded more than $5 million in grants to LGBTQ+ organizations nationwide, with a particular focus on the Northeast.

Here in Connecticut, Elliot’s impact is woven into the fabric of our community. His vision and generosity helped launch the Bridgeport Pride Center, supported the growth of the Triangle Community Center, and strengthened organizations that continue to serve thousands of LGBTQ+ people and their families.

Elliot also believed philanthropy should respond to the needs of the moment. When Connecticut established the Safe Harbor Fund under the leadership of State Treasurer Erick Russell, the Leonard-Litz Foundation proudly became its first donor with a gift of $25,000. The fund helps remove financial barriers for individuals traveling to Connecticut to access reproductive or gender-affirming healthcare that is legal here but restricted in their home states, reflecting Elliot’s steadfast belief that everyone deserves access to compassionate, affirming healthcare.

As Executive Director of the Leonard-Litz Foundation, I had the privilege of working alongside Elliot during the final chapter of his remarkable life. I promised him we would continue leading the Foundation with the integrity, strategic vision, and compassion that guided every decision he made. That promise remains at the heart of our work today.

Even as his health declined, Elliot never stopped thinking about our community. In May, as Pride Month approached during an especially challenging time for LGBTQ+ people across the country, he prepared one final message. Although illness prevented us from sharing it then, his words have become an enduring part of his legacy.

He acknowledged the fear and uncertainty many were experiencing but refused to let despair have the final word. Instead, he reminded us that hope requires action. He challenged LGBTQ+ organizations to continue advocating, educating, and engaging their communities. He encouraged each of us to volunteer, give what we can, participate in civic life, and stand beside one another. He thanked families and allies for their unwavering support and reminded them that their voices continue to change hearts and open minds.

Above all, Elliot wanted every member of our community to remember this:

“You matter. Your life matters. Your voice matters. Our community matters.”

Those words capture the essence of who Elliot was. He believed every person deserved to be seen, valued, and empowered. His legacy is measured not only by the millions of dollars he invested in LGBTQ+ organizations, but by the lives he changed, the leaders he inspired, and the hope he instilled in so many.

The greatest way we can honor Elliot is to carry his values forward—with kindness, generosity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to one another. If we continue to show up for our community as he did, his legacy will live on in every act of compassion, every opportunity created, and every life uplifted.

In the closing words of his final message, Elliot left us with a challenge that now belongs to all of us:

“We have faced difficult moments before, and we are still here. We are survivors and builders of community. So please—don’t give up. Never give up.” 

—Judy Troilo, Executive Director and Trustee, The Leonard Litz Foundation.