Dennis Sleigh was a loyal supporter of the ACT Foundation  from the late 1980s including as President, until it wound up not long after Dennis was posted away to the position of Principal of the Catholic School in Temora, NSW. Dennis and his wife, Margaret, who was National Treasurer for 16 years then turned their allegiance to the NSW branch where they continued as supporters to this day.

In 1980, Dennis, Margaret and their three children moved to Canberra where, toward the end of the decade, they were introduced to the work of the Ryder Cheshire Foundations. At about that time, Dennis met and was truly inspired by the late Leonard Cheshire. Dennis and Margaret became firm supporters of Ryder Cheshire with both taking executive positions as required and being involved in all the activities of the small Foundation. 

Dennis is described by the University of Canberra as one of Australia’s most distinguished educators. He was a prolific writer and teachers all over Australia have read and benefitted from his wisdom. 

He died in Wagga Wagga Hospital on 23 July 2025 at 80 years of age. No doubt he is enjoying one of those deep and meaningful discussions that he so enjoyed with Leonard years ago.

May He Rest in Peace. 

For the full version of the Vale go to ryder-cheshire.org

Patricia McDonell with content provided by Margaret Sleigh.