Tony Leslie, owner of Leslie’s Imports and sports sponsor, passes away

Photo Credit: Dion Leslie

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Prominent Belizean businessman and community figure Tony Leslie, who passed away at approximately 10:30 pm on Wednesday at the age of 72, undoubtedly leaves a lasting impact on Belize.

Leslie was a self-made businessman who rose to be well-respected and esteemed in Belize, particularly Belize City. His entrepreneurial spirit not only shaped Leslie’s Imports and Leslie’s Block Factory but also provided valuable employment opportunities, contributing to the economic vitality of Belize City’s south side.

Born in Benque Viejo del Carmen on July 14, 1951, he grew up in Belize City at the Leslie family home on East Collet Canal.

Apart from his businesses, Tony was well-known in sports circles, particularly footbal. He sponsored several teams, starting with Verdes. Not forgetting his family roots in Benque, his support for Verdes way back in the late eighties and early nineties, was consistent and lasted for a number of years under the name Acros Verdes. The support for the club was such that he even employed several of the team players. Additionally, he enjoyed traveling with them for international Concacaf matches.

In Belize City, he also sponsored Acros and Acros Carib, champion teams, in the nineties as well. But he didn’t limit himself to just that, he was also known to sponsor other sports teams such as Acroz Burners softball team.

His dedication to his family was evident in the heartfelt words shared by his son, Dion Leslie, in his social media post.

“A friend told me today that “The Greater the Love the Greater the Hurt”.  I can tell you that this HURTS,” Dion Leslie, ex-Belize City Deputy Mayor, wrote on social media at 1:00 am on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

“You were the best dad any son could ask for, the best friend that always knew the right words. I will miss you so much DAD, but I know you’re at peace now and that you will forever be watching over your family and guiding us.

“Rest In Paradise Dad. Rest knowing that you left your mark on this world and you touched so many people’s lives for the better. I love Pop, I miss you already, Matthew loves you , all your grandkids love you, Antony and Mom love you and your entire family loves you and will miss you.”

Being disillusioned with the way football was turning out, he withdrew from football sponsoring officially, but even after that he was known to lend sports teams a helping hand.

Lately, Dion said they helped sponsor the Belize City Defenders basketball team and Port Layola FC.

Being out of the sport circle, he dedicated some of his spare time to fishing out in the Belizean waters.

Tony Leslie’s generosity and genuine care for his community have touched many lives, and his memory will be cherished as a symbol of local pride and enduring kindness.

Rest in peace, Tony Leslie.