The BMI Repertoire lists a song called LEANING ON THE GATE by Anthony Pringle.

The Black Eagle Jazz Band recorded LEANING ON THE GATE on their album "Jersey Lightning," Stomp Off CD #1224, originally issued 1990, where it is credited to Tony Pringle, the leader of the band. I transcribed this from a sound sample at allmusic:

Sometimes I watch ... from yonder steeple
And sometimes I ...
Then it seems that before too very long
That nightingale has started his sweet song.
Although I lean, it's never too late....

The band has been in existence since 1971.

Does this sound like the song you're looking for?