Leonard Dewight Dean

July 6,1938 - September 26, 2026

Palmdale – Leonard Dewight "Moody" Dean, 88, of Palmdale, California, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Liberty, Kentucky, Leonard was one of nine children of John W. and Velma Wright Dean. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, beginning a lifelong love of aviation.

Following his military service, Leonard worked on flight test programs at North American Aviation before joining Northrop Grumman, where he ultimately retired as a Program Manager.

Leonard was an avid outdoorsman who also enjoyed collecting old cars, tractors, and Griswold skillets. He loved western movies, country music, and Kentucky bourbon. With his quick wit and charismatic personality, he never met a stranger.

To his family, Leonard was their hero-the man whose strength, humor, wisdom, and love helped shape their lives. He and his beloved wife, Margaret, shared 67 years of marriage and built a family that was the greatest joy of his life.

Leonard is survived by his wife, Margaret; children Sondra Dean Geddes (Tony Moore), David Dean, and Penny Dean Miller (Terry Miller); grandchildren Cameron (Lindsay), Michael (Rae), Amanda, and Matthew; great-grandchildren Chase, Brooklyn, and Parker; sisters Rosa, Betty, and Linda; and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Paul, Ralph, John, Larry, and MaryAnn.

Leonard leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and lessons that will remain with his family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 28, 2026 at 3 pm at the Rancho Vista Golf Club, 3905 Club Rancho Drive, Palmdale, CA.