Leon Dempsey Thigpen

Leon Dempsey Thigpen, age 93, of McDonough, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at his home. He was born on October 12, 1932, in Alma Georgia, the son of the late Ira Lee Thigpen and Marie Moore Thigpen. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his siblings, Burnice Lagree Thigpen, James Arthur "Jim" Thigpen, Latrelle Thigpen Spence, William B. Thigpen, and Eloise Thigpen Varnadore.
Leon lived a life marked by service. Service to his country, to the State of Georgia, and most importantly, to the family he loved so deeply. At a young age, Leon honorably served in the United States Army Airborne unit during the Korean War era. He completed his training at Fort McClellan, Alabama. Throughout his service, he took tremendous pride in earning the National Defense Service Medal, a decoration awarded to those who serve during periods of national conflict.
Following his military career, Leon continued serving others as a Lieutenant within the Georgia Department of Corrections. He was a member of the Reidsville Baptist Church in Reidsville, Ga. Of all his roles, his favorite was being "Papa." He cherished his grandchildren, and they deeply loved him in return. Leon enjoyed time with his family, whether on the lake, driving his John Deere tractor, sharing quiet laughter, or spending time outdoors simply working in the yard. Leon is fondly remembered and well known for his passion for Ham radio operations. Using the call sign "Station Breaker," he connected with and built friendships with people all over the United States.
He leaves behind his wife, Jean DeLoach Thigpen; children, Leon Clyde (Annette) Thigpen, Kaydeen Delores (Tim) McQueen, and Machelle Thigpen Pierce (Wess Boatwright); grandchildren, Joseph (Sarah) Thigpen, Jessika (Mark) Stieffenhofer, Landon Pierce, Adam (Ivy) Pierce, and their father Loren Pierce, along with great-grandchildren Bailey, Emory, Holden, Bella, and Joesy, as well as several nieces, nephews, and other extended family members..
Leon lived simply and humbly, never seeking attention. He requested no service or gathering, preferring for his family to honor him privately. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leon, please visit our floral store.