Leslie died Feb. 7, 2004, of complications from an epileptic seizure.
Leslie lived with his family in San Francisco and taught elementary school in Oakland. At Princeton, Leslie majored in politics and was a member of Charter Club.
In a tribute to him, three members of the House of Representatives, including Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi of San Francisco, the House Democratic leader, stated the following: "Leslie Reif was the kind of teacher students remember 10 and 20 and even 40 years later, because he made a real difference in their young lives. They will remember him for his tireless dedication to excellence, his infectious optimism, and his deep caring for them and their achievements. He will be remembered as a man who loved working with children.
"He was a kind, modest man who downplayed most of his own accomplishments, while working hard to encourage the success of others. That is the lasting legacy he leaves to his family, his school, our communities, and our country."
Survivors include Leslie's wife, Millie Phillips; their son, Daniel; Leslie's stepson, Jeffrey Morgan; his mother, Rita Reif; and his brother, Tim Reif '80 *85.
A scholarship has been created in Leslie's name at the Marcus A. Foster Educational Institute, 1203 Preservation Parkway, Suite 303, Oakland, CA 94612. Contributions should be designated for the Leslie Reif Fund.
The Class of 1976