Leonard James Newsted

Born to LD J. Newsted & Phyllis D. Newsted (Stevens) in Saginaw, Michigan, Leonard spent his formative years in Buckeye, Arizona. He attended Buckeye Union High School and quickly after graduation, Leonard went on to join the workforce. In 1969, Leonard met Betty and on November 15th, 1975, the happy couple were wed. Together, they raised 4 children- Heather Darlene, Tracy Elizabeth, Christopher James, and LD Leroy. Leonard’s professional life included an impressive 35-year career as a truck driver with McLane Co. He later retired in 2018. During his retirement, Leonard enjoyed spending time with his many grandchildren, hunting, working on cars, watching game shows, and listening to oldies music. Leonard also loved traveling with his wife Betty and the pair very much enjoyed traveling to Indiana together. Leonard had a stubborn personality and those who knew him best, knew Leonard to be a hard worker. Leonard had an incredible talent for carpentry- he often shared that talent with those around him by building a variety of things. He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend.

Leonard is survived by his loving wife Betty Newsted, his daughters Yvonne Joy Shultz (Ed), Heather Darlene Daughterty (Teil), Tracy Elizabeth Marchese (Eddie), as well as his sons Christopher James Newsted, and LD Leroy Newsted (Kimberly). He is also survived by his sisters Annette Decker, Jennie Traxter, and Kelly Burt as well as his brother Donald Fink. Leonard will be greatly missed by his 22 surviving grandchildren as well as his 14 great-grandchildren.

Leonard was preceded in passing by his brother Richard Newsted, his parents LD Newsted and Phyllis Fink, his grandson Aaron Daugherty, and his son-in-law William Daughtery Sr.

Leonard’s spirit will be greatly missed. And though we know Leonard is no longer with us, his memory will live on in our hearts forever.

A public viewing and visitation will be held on Friday April 4th, 2025, beginning at 5:00 P.M. at Thompson Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear Arizona, 85338. A funeral service will be held immediately afterwards beginning at 6:30 P.M. that evening.