Leonard LeRoy Gilley, 85, passed away August 15, 2022, in West Jordan, Utah.
Born in Salt Lake City, Utah on December 5, 1936, to Henry LeRoy and Hilda LaRue Beck Gilley. He was the beloved brother of siblings Gladys Elaine Gilley Adams, Ronald Gilley, and baby boy Gilley.
After high school, he spent several years in the National Guard and eventually found himself meeting Geraldine Mangum who he married. Together they grew their family adding three children, Bryan, Gordon and Marvin. After several years, they divorced. He soon after met Betty Lou Eiland who he married, growing his family even more adding her 4 children, Alan, Bret, Cathy and Deann.
Leonard had many passions in his life. From a young age he turned his hobbies into passions. He loved horses and spent many hours caring for and talking about his Appaloosa show horse and later enjoying racehorses as well. He enjoyed hunting with family and many friends and found a significant amount of joy through the years as he restored and treasured his 1936 Ford Coupe. He spent his life driving many different trucks, receiving many awards throughout his career.
Leonard is survived by his children Bryan (Patricia), Gordon, Marvin, grandchildren Patrick, Jacob and Robert, great-grandchildren Mattie and Hunter. He is also survived by Betty’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in passing by his wife, Betty; his parents, sister Gladys Elaine Gilley Adams, his brothers Ronald Gilley and baby boy Gilley.
Graveside services will be held at 11am on Friday, August 19, 2022, at the West Jordan City Cemetery, 7925 South 1300 West, in West Jordan. A viewing will be held for friends and family to pay their respects on Thursday, August 18, 2022, from 6-8 at the River Oaks 4th Ward, 8950 South 1300 West in West Jordan, Utah. Graveside services will be streamed via Zoom for those unable to attend or wishing to attend virtually. To watch the services, please click on the “Watch Services” above.