Jeffrey Dean Leonard

Jeffrey “Jeff” Dean Leonard of Lexington, NC, finished his four-year battle with cancer on January 12, 2026, and is now at peace in his heavenly home.

Jeff lived a life marked by character, quiet strength, and deep integrity as modeled by his parents. He was a devoted husband of 38 years—steady, loyal, and loving. To his children and grandchildren, he was a constant source of guidance and encouragement, always present, always willing to listen, and always generous with his time and heart. The sun, moon, and stars in his sky were his girls and his grandchildren.

His faith showed in how he treated others and how he faced life’s challenges. Even during years of illness, he never let illness define him. Instead, he will be remembered for his perseverance, his hope, and the love he shared so freely with those around him.

Jeff was an honest and honorable man, a Renaissance man with many accomplishments, interests, and talents. He earned degrees and worked in the fields of Accounting, Computer Science, and Viticulture & Enology.  Two degrees were earned while raising a family and working full-time.  He had an enduring love and passion for music; he played the piano and hand bells, collected and loved music from many genres.  Another passion was for his alma mater, NC State University football. He loved genealogy, the history of the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War. He had an enthusiasm for Electric Football and darts and had many friends in various leagues. He loved working with his hands in woodworking, tending his grapes, and wine making. He and Dana loved to travel to small towns to spend time and increase his collection of pocket knives. He had a particular passion for “mom and pop” restaurants, especially if they served chicken livers and sweet tea. Other hobbies included kayaking, sailing, and golf.

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents, Roby and Lib Leonard; his aunt and uncle, Bill and Shirley Waters of Raleigh, NC; and his cousin Tim Waters also of Raleigh, NC. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dana; his children, Rachel Mills and husband Garrett, their children JJ and Sage; Madelyn Cauthen and husband Ashton, their children Eliana and Adelie; Haylee Leonard and her partner Brick Wilkins; his brother, Randy Leonard and wife Janet; his cousin David Waters and wife Jean of Raleigh, NC; and many extended family members and friends who will carry his memory.

While we mourn his passing, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that he is now healed, whole, and resting in the presence of his Savior. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the faith he modeled so faithfully. We miss his love and friendship, his wonderful conversation, and his quick wit. He was a remarkable man. His passing leaves a great vacuum. May his memory be eternal both here and in heaven.

The service will be held at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 4299 S. NC Highway 150, Lexington, NC, on January 31, 2026, beginning at 10 AM. Visitation with the family will follow the service. He wished for his body to be cremated and his ashes to be deposited in various places that were very special to him.

In place of flowers, donations should be made to St. Luke’s Lutheran Church or Cancer Services of Davidson County, 25 West 6th Avenue, Lexington, NC 27292.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

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