Leonard Nelson

DR. LEONARD D. NELSON, D.D.S.

October 29, 1942-December 12, 2025

Dr. Leonard D. Nelson, D.D.S. passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025. He was a true New Mexican. Born in Albuquerque, he grew up in Las Cruces, graduated from Las Cruces High School, married a New Mexican and raised his family in the Mesilla Valley.

Dr. Nelson was an Air Force veteran, graduating from New Mexico State University and Baylor Dental School in Dallas, Texas. He practiced dentistry in Las Cruces for over 45 years and was a long-time and active member of the Las Cruces Rio Grande Rotary Club. Leonard also enjoyed his years with the NMSU Aggie Booster Club, Sertoma, and Voz Vaqueros.

Leonard loved his family and treasured his friendships. Motorcycle riding over Imogene Pass, trips to Mexico, rafting down the Colorado River, come-as-you-are breakfasts, pasta parties, 4th of July celebrations, and bicycle riding to Chope’s were all memories that he cherished. He also really enjoyed cooking for and with his friends.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife, Bonny, and his son, Doug. He is survived by his daughters Hila and Cheri (Copley), his son-in-law, Ward, and grandsons, Edward and Owen.

We want to especially thank his incredible caregiver, Stephanie Tucker, and the caregivers and nurses at Mountain Shadows Home Care, Help at Home, Mesilla Valley Hospice, and the Las Cruces VA for their kindness. We also want to thank all of his friends who came to visit him, took him out to eat, and even brought him popcorn.

In memory of our father, please consider donations to the Rotary Foundation, https://my.rotary.org/en/donate or Mesilla Valley Hospice.