Dr. Chester (Chet) Leathers was lifted to the lord on June 24, 2026 at the age of 97. An Arizona State University Professor of Botany Microbiology/ Medical Mycology for 32
years, founder of the Arizona Mushroom Club, and the individual who was awarded an Honorary Scientist degree from the man who discovered the polio vaccine, Dr. Jonas Salk.
Dr. Leathers possessed an amazing intellect and always expressed genuine love for his family and friends. He was one who never met a person he didn’t consider a friend, and his
impact reaches far and wide. Having discovered the first case of Valley Fever in a prehistoric American, Dr. Leathers has been featured in countless news publications for his
research on mushrooms, and the development of scientific culture media, and for his discoveries and naming of several new species of fungi and other plant diseases.
He left an indelible imprint for us all. Dr. Leathers is survived by his devoted wife and love of his life Rose Mary Cisneros Leathers, children Dr. Brent Leathers, and daughters Michelle Leathers and Lisa Leathers Cox (Bryan), grandchildren Dylann Cox and Brolin Cox, and an expansive extended family of grandchildren, nephews and nieces who he wholeheartedly adored.
He was predeceased by his son Mark Leathers, twin sister Esther “Toni” Phillips, older brother Devere, and his parents Edna and Herman.
A viewing will take place on July 7, 2026 from 9:30 to10:30am at Mountain View Funeral
Home & Cemetery, 7900 E. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85207 with a celebration of life from
10:30 to noon. A burial will take place immediately following the service.
Reception to follow the burial at an offsite location.
Celebrating 75 years of serving our community