It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Leslie H. Ely, beloved husband, father, and grandfather who passed away on February 3, 2026, at Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale.

Born April 27, 1945 in Brooklyn, NY, to Leslie and Sophie Ely, he graduated from Plaza Elementary School and Baldwin High School both in Baldwin, NY. Les was a proud veteran, having served in the US Army. Then, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Long Island University, C.W. Post Campus. He started his career in accounting at Lundy Electronics. Next, he worked for MetLife as an insurance salesman, and lastly worked for Pike County until his retirement. 

He enjoyed retirement at his lake house and loved boating-often taking his grandchildren tubing or just taking a cruise around the lake. Les always loved the beach, the pool, and swimming in general, and shared this love with his family. In addition to having a profound impact on those around him while alive, he continued giving of himself after death by being an organ donor with "Gift of Life" donations.

Les married the love of his life Marjorie Ely in October of 1967. Together, they raised 5 children, Kathleen who is married to Jim Olmstead, Marjorie who is married to Nathaniel Naidich, Holly who is married to Matthew Connolly, and James Ely whose partner is Jennifer Epstein. 

Les is preceded in death by his eldest son Robert, and is survived by his daughter -in-law Gina Ely. In addition to his wife and children, Les is survived by his grandchildren Sydney, Thomas, Maxwell, Robert, Hannah, Penelope, and Matthew.

The services for Les are private and at the convenience of the family

.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Leslie H. Ely to the American Lung Association.  

To leave condolences or to share a favorite memory of Les in our online sign-in book, please visit www.jamesfamilyfunerals.com.