November 1929 – August 2012
Leeland R. Jones passed away in his sleep at his Sun Lakes Country Club home on Aug. 19 after a long bout with cancer. His wife Mary Ellen (Melon) and eldest daughter Nadine were at his side.

He was born in Los Angeles in November 1929 to Ralph and Florence Jones. The family moved when he was very young to the Crescenta Valley where he lived until his retirement.

He graduated from Glendale High School and then joined his father’s construction business. Leeland served in the Army in Korea during the Korean War. He returned to the construction business where he was a plastering supervisor for many significant projects in the Los Angeles area.

Upon retirement, his wife Dorothy and he moved to Big Bear where he had a lifetime of association at the family cabin. Leeland was an excellent craftsman in many trades which is well showcased in the large home he built, as well as much of the furniture, on the North Shore. He was always willing to assist family and friends with their projects. Four years ago, Leeland and his second wife Melon purchased a seasonal home at the Sun Lakes Country Club in Banning. His remodel of their Sun Lakes home is further evidence of these talents.

He was predeceased by his parents, his first wife Dorothy, son Ralph, brother Clinton and his twin sister Dahlia Bragdon. He is survived by his wife Melon, sons Stuart (Lori), Brian (Debbie), Keith (Julie) and daughters Nadine Mangelli (Bill) and Connie Villasenor (Ray), 11 grandchildren and four great grandchildren, two great, great grandchildren and his loyal feline friends Chevy and Ford.

He was loved by his immediate and extended family and well regarded and respected by a host of friends and associates.

A celebration of his life will be held at his Big Bear home later this coming fall.