George W. Leighty Jr.

George W. Leighty, Jr., 81, passed away Tuesday, May 19 at his home on Merritt Island. He is survived by 3 children, David Leighty, Steven Leighty and Linda McGlamery, 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Dorothy (Barden) Leighty, and son, Michael Leighty.

George was born in Cocoa, Florida, attended Cocoa High School (class of ‘50), served as a Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy and graduated from Orlando Junior College.

George and Dot were married in 1953 and moved to Merritt Island in 1965 where they raised their 4 children. After decades of working at the Space Center, George retired from U.S.A. in 2006.

In between working and raising a family, George made time to coach Little League, Lassie League and Merritt Island High School softball, basketball and football.

George’s was a life of quiet dedication; dedication to his wife and family, dedication to his community and dedication to his country. He left this world a better place than he found it.

Services will be held Memorial Day, May 25 at 2 pm at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home, Merritt Island. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Central Brevard Sharing Center in Cocoa.