Obituary

Leslie Jo DeLong, known affectionately as Les, peacefully passed away on October 8, 2023, at the age of 68 in Laguna Hills, CA. Born on August 3, 1955, in Bristol, PA, Les was a woman of remarkable beauty, vibrant spirit, and unwavering resilience. She will forever be cherished for her boundless love, kindness, quick wit, and unwavering determination.

Les leaves behind a legacy of love and a family who adored her. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Lisa Ann Saunders, and son-in-law, Robert Edward Saunders III, her cherished daughter, Lauren Beth Gindele, and her former husband, Charles Howard Gindele. Les was a source of immense joy and pride to her grandchildren, Lily Ruth, Lola Grace, Lucy Pieper, and Robert Edward Saunders IV, as well as her loyal granddogs, Sadie, Charley, and Poppy. She is also survived by her dear brother, John K. DeLong III, and sister-in-law, Peggy, her sister-in-law Caroline DeLong, nephews Derek, Declan and Dempsey DeLong, Vincent, Evan, and John DeLong, nieces Desiree and Destiny DeLong, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Les was predeceased by her beloved parents, John K. DeLong Jr. and Margaret Kane DeLong, as well as her dear brother, David DeLong. Their memory will forever be held close to her heart.

Throughout her life, Les devoted herself to the role of a loving wife and dedicated mother, choosing to stay at home and nurture her family for many years. Later in life, she found fulfillment as a medical assistant, serving with dedication and compassion in Laguna Niguel and Laguna Beach. Les had a passion for fashion and beauty, always exuding elegance and grace. She took pleasure in maintaining an active lifestyle, and her love for chocolate chip cookies, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and ice cream was legendary.

A private burial ceremony, honoring Les’s life and legacy, will be held at Ascension Cemetery in Lake Forest, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions to be made to laurashouse.org, a cause close to Les’s heart.

The O’Connor Mortuary, located in Laguna Hills, CA, has been entrusted with the solemn arrangements for Les’s final journey.

Leslie Jo DeLong will forever be remembered as a beacon of love and strength. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. May her soul find eternal peace.