Even now, it is difficult not to smile when we think of Leighton's
humor --- his beautiful rosy-cheeked smile --- the effortless
smoothness of his stroke, as threw
for the winning double. His
darting championships…..beginning with the first-ever WDF World
Cup (1977) and Embassy World Professional (1978) titles…..will
live on in the annals of darts history. It is, however, the cherished
memories of the man, himself, that will not soon fade from our
hearts.
Leighton was a true gentleman, with exemplary sportsmanship.
He was the first
to extend his hand, whether in victory or
defeat. When Alan or Eric "stirred" the waters, Leighton
was there to calm them. His fierce Welsh pride was legendary
and his gentle manner endeared him in the hearts of many.
Las Vegas was Leighton's "magic kingdom". He was
there, as a player, when Wales won the WDF World Cup in 1979.
It was there that he later married his soul mate, Debbie, during
one of the many North American Open events he frequented.
In
1993, Leighton was there when Wales won the Cup again….this
time, as their Honorary Captain. The memory of Leighton, wearing
his Welsh shirt with the
Red Dragon across his broad shoulders,
will endure among the international darting fraternity.
Our countless personal memories of Leighton, date back to
his first visits to America, some thirty years ago. He was
so shy and his deep Welsh accent was difficult for us to understand……yet,
we loved him from the start. At this sad time, we feel fortunate
to have a particularly happy memory of Leighton to share.
On
one of many visits to our home, Leighton recalled taking his
new car to the automated car wash. It seems he was already
on the track, when he discovered that he didn't know how to
operate the windows. So there he sat…with all four windows
down…patiently waiting for the wash / rinse cycles to finish.
When he
got out of the car, Leighton noticed an old gentleman
watching intently, as he took off his shirt to wring the water
from it. He smiled and waved to the man
and quipped, "I
always enjoy a good shower, don't you?"
Yes, Leighton, we will miss you. You were a great Ambassador
for your Family, your Country and the Sport of Darts, and we
were proud to call you our friend. Your legacy will live on
through our memories of your ever-present smile and your wonderful
humor. May you rest in peace, knowing you were loved by all
who knew you.
Sincerely,
Tom & Della Fleetwood |
