" so I am wondering if it is more difficult to leave/fade if you are a high hour publisher vs low hour, MS or elder vs rank and file..."
I wondered how difficult it would be when I just walked away. I was a MS, a high genuine hours Pub. and from a very well known JW family, with JW connections back to the early 1900's.
It was surprisingly easy ! I heard nothing for six months ! despite being not only all of the above, but the very best meeting Attender in my Congregation, always there.
I got the two Elder visit, which they claimed was a "Shepherding call", no Shepherding went on, they just tried to find a way to DF me !
I swatted their pathetic attempts aside, as I did on the second and last occasion. Good luck to anyone "leaving", even if it is only in their mind and not physically so much for now.
Be prepared, forearmed, and then enjoy Freedom of Mind !