Carl Aloysius Leighton IV, 55, of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, devoted husband of Adrienne (Stook) Leighton, passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
Anyone who knew Carl quickly recognized his intelligence, sharp wit, and felt the genuine joy and gratitude with which he approached life. He was deeply curious, thoughtful, and kind, someone who gave generously of his time and attention to others.
Carl placed immense value on relationships, many of which were forged through his involvement in his work, athletics, coaching, and most importantly, raising his two sons. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a devoted Catholic who attended mass regularly at St. Eleanor Catholic Church in Collegeville.
Carl could often be found at the Spring Valley YMCA, out for a run, or enjoying long walks with Adrienne and their dog. These moments of movement and togetherness brought him great peace and joy.
Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, Carl was the son of Carl Aloysius Leighton III and Ann Marie (Brady) Leighton. Raised in King of Prussia, he attended Mother of Divine Providence School and later graduated from Archbishop John Carroll High School in 1988, where he competed as a multi-sport athlete. Carl earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Villanova University in 1992 and was a member of the Alpha Phi Delta fraternity. He later earned a Master of Science in Finance from Drexel University in 1997, graduating cum laude.
A corporate finance professional for more than 30 years, Carl was known for his analytical rigor, insight, and integrity. He was a founding partner of Wildwood Capital. Prior to that, he led investment strategy at Leighton McGill Group and began his career as a Financial Analyst at Quaker Capital Advisors, where he developed lasting professional relationships and lifelong mentorships.
For the past 12 years, Carl shared his knowledge and experiences with students as a professor at West Chester University, where he taught corporate finance and statistics.
Along with his parents, Carl is survived by his beloved wife, Adrienne; his sons, Brett and Jared; his sister, Katie Leighton, wife of Julio Miranda; his brother, Kevin Leighton, husband of Adrienne (Eberly) Leighton; his mother-in-law, Irene Olszewski Stook of Wilkes-Barre; his family’s puppy, Bullet; and many loving nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM at St. Eleanor Catholic Church, 647 Locust Street, Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Burial will follow at Limerick Garden of Memories. Visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 to 11:45 AM.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family simply asks that you share your memories of Carl with them. Support is often abundant in the days immediately following a loss, but grief endures. In the weeks, months, and years ahead, if Carl comes to mind, please send a text, make a call, write an email, or arrange a visit. Speaking his name and sharing your stories will forever be a gift to his family.