Leland Kent Jessop was born February 17, 1944 in Toquerville, Utah, to Allan and Bernice Jessop.

He passed away on February 26, 2026, his wife Irene at his side.

Leland was raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. Upon graduation from South High School in Salt Lake he was given the opportunity to live with the Minister of Education in Mexico City. For two years he enjoyed learning a new culture as well as the study of law and economics.

His immediate family moved from Utah to San Pedro, CA. Leland followed and spent the remainder of his life in San Pedro, Rancho Palos Verdes and Palm Desert, California where he enjoyed a second residence for many years.

He was fortunate to have traveled throughout Europe, the Carribean, Hawaii and beyond.

Leland worked for 26 years at KNXT/CBS NEWS in Hollywood as Production Associate. He worked closely with Jerry Dunphy, Connie Chung, Bill Stout, Jim Hill, just to name a few, as well as Legendary Investigative Journalist, Pete Noyes, who considered Leland his “best friend” and made him a collaborator on several books and projects.

He had great stories of meeting Presidents, celebrities and sports figures.

After 26 years at CBS he took early retirement to build a Legal Support Company with wife, Irene, which is still in operation.

He was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Irene, for 47 years. He was also a supportive and loving brother-in-law to Irene’s sister, Evangeline “Evie” Desby-Hatch.

He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and great warmth which he extended to all. He enjoyed and earned their love and respect in return. He was described by a frend.....” he was so genuine and selfless, never seeking a reward for all of his kind deeds. ...he did those things because he had such a kind, pure heart...and certainly one of God’s Masterworks”...

Over the years he was devoted and bonded to his pets, making sure they had plenty of daily activites, walking and play time.

He is survived by his siblings, Janice Bratt, Trudy Kanahele, Greg Jessop (JoAnn) and Jeff Jessop. He was predeceased by siblings, Alana Merrill, Mark Jessop (Judy) and Lamont Jessop (Anita). He leaves numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Leland led a full and wonderful life and will be deeply missed by all that had the privilege of knowing him.

A private internment with family. Celebration of Life at a later date.