Leslie Joan Moëd
Leslie Joan Moëd completed her last earthly adventure on June 17, 2024, unexpectedly but in just enough time to shine her lovely smile on family and friends and to feel their love one more time. Daughter of Irwin and Barbara Moëd (deceased). Sister to Alison Paolercio (Michael), Paula Izumi (Yoshitsugu), and Ed Moëd. Beloved Aunt of Taemi Moëd Izumi (Brian) and Richard Moëd. Cherished Godmother of Adrienne Oxton and Cheng Kwan. Spirit Mother to Rebecca Parker. Unforgettable friend of many.
Leslie was engaging and radiant wherever her sphere of influence. Her warmth would draw people in, and she made friends everywhere she went. She was born in war-troubled Washington DC, but spent her childhood years in NYC, where she distinguished herself scholastically especially with her language skills in English and French. Barnard College could not contain her and she went off to work at the UN where friends introduced her to the free jazz scene happening in New York. She was transported by the music. Her questing and resilient nature led her to Amsterdam and then to Morocco, to support jazz pianist Randy Weston’s effort to explore the African roots of American jazz. Back in New York again, she discovered her innate ability to heal with touch and trained extensively in massage. In New York and in Santa Barbara, she was known for the healing magic of her touch and the delightful aromatic fragrances she created on the spot for each client.
Leslie was grateful to those who helped her on her life’s path, including her fellow Actualism practitioners. Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful, caring staff at Cottage Hospital who eased her way. And to her loving friends Frederica Welch, Jan Ingram, Rebecca McLean, Barbara Gaughen- Muller, Pam Osley, Juliette Rohde-Brown, Ursula Lamberti, Shanti Duree, Francesca Patruno, Anthony Kar, Eddie Tuduri, and Linda and Peter Beuret, who were steadfast by her side before and after, as well as new friends Philip Prinz and Kent Hanson. We are sure she was greeted and embraced on the other side by beloved friends who preceded her there, including fellow healer Lonni Wu.
Her legacy includes love, empathy, laughter, and compassion. Memories of her smile and her joyous appreciation of the sensual gifts of life will delight us forever. Love and white clouds to you, dearest Leslie.