LeRoy O. Closson

LeRoy O. Closson, 90, of Taylor and Cincinnatus, NY, passed away suddenly on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at his home.

Born in the Town of Taylor, NY, on January 1, 1935, LeRoy was the son of the late Norman and Edna Sergeant Closson. He was a proud member and retiree of the International Union of Operating Engineers, a position that underscored his commitment to hard work and perseverance. Following his retirement from the union, LeRoy served as the Town of Taylor Highway Superintendent for 16 years, where he made significant contributions to the infrastructure and welfare of his community.

LeRoy was deeply involved in numerous organizations, reflecting his diverse interests and passions. He was a member of the Free & Accepted Masons and an enthusiastic participant in the Ithaca Aviation Club. His dedication to his community was further exemplified by his 60-year plus membership on the Cortland County Fair Board and his active role as a committee member of the Cortland County Democratic Party. In addition, he served as a trustee for the Taylor Rural Cemetery, showing his respect for the history and members of his community.

Beyond his civic duties, LeRoy had a distinctive knack for nurturing life. He raised three seeing-eye dogs that graduated and found loving homes, a testament to his compassionate nature and his commitment to helping others.

LeRoy is survived by his loving children, Randy (Jacque) Closson, Shelby (Steven) Mudge, Luann (Kevin) King, all of Cincinnatus, Debra (Terry) Root of Taylor, and Janet (Dean) Hufford of Chesapeake City, MD. He also leaves behind his siblings, Norma Rathbone of Cincinnatus, Brenda Baiguini of Preble, and Barbara Hoellerer of Skaneateles, along with his brother Louis (Barbara) Closson of Blodgett Mills. He was a proud grandfather to 16 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 29 great-grandchildren, each one a source of joy and pride for him; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 59 years, Wilma Stith Closson, who entered into eternal rest on September 14, 2014, and by his sisters Joyce Closson and Janice Hoellerer.

A graveside service to honor LeRoy’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Taylor Rural Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy in memory of LeRoy may be directed to The Seeing Eye, Inc., 1 Seeing Eye Wy, Morristown, NJ 07960 or the Cortland County Fair Board, c/o Bernice Masler, 560 State Route 222, Cortland, NY 13045.