Dean William Leary

Dean William Leary

April 24, 1950 – July 28, 2026

Dean William Leary, 76, passed away quietly on July 28, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah after complications related to dementia. He was born on April 24, 1950, in Salt Lake City, Utah to George Edward and Effie Louise Billings Leary. He was well-known at work and among family and friends for his friendly demeanor.

After graduating from Viewmont High School in 1968, he attended LDS Business College where he met Barbara Earl. For him, it was love at first sight and they were married on April 26, 1971. During their 21 years of marriage, Dean worked hard to support his family while tenderly caring for Barbara as she lived with multiple sclerosis. They raised one son together and Barbara passed away in 1991. Later he met Margaret Ann Bailey, and they were married on July 26, 2003. They enjoyed 23 years together working, traveling, and visiting family and friends.

Dean worked for Stone Container, the University of Utah Hospital, and Primary Children’s Medical Center, where he was known as a dependable and friendly service worker. He always had a smile to share with everyone around him.

He loved sports, especially baseball, and was a devoted BYU fan. He loved watching movies and was always eager to discover one he had not seen before. His faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ was an important part of his life, and he faithfully kept a journal. Above all, he cherished his two granddaughters, who he visited as often as he could.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Earl Leary; his father, George Edward Leary; his mother, Effie Louise Billings Leary; and his sister, Edrice (Allen) Christensen.

He is survived by his wife Margaret Ann Bailey Leary; his son Whitney (Heather) Leary; his granddaughters Serin and Sonora Leary; his brothers Edward (Jo Ann), Kent (Vicki), and Glen (Val); his sister Glorie (Brent) Franson; and many extended family members and friends.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Dean's physicians and to the compassionate caregivers at Monument Health for the kindness and care they provided during his final days.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 am at the 33^rd Ward, 453 South 1100 East, Salt Lake City. Friends may visit with the family from 9:30-10:30 at the church prior to services. Interment: Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City.

Services will be live-streamed and may be viewed by clicking on the “Watch Services” tab above.