Stephen Thomas LeClair, age 72, of Plymouth, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born in 1952 in Quincy to his parents, J. William and Rita LeClair.

Steve was a graduate of Archbishop Williams High School, Class of 1970, and Fitchburg State College, Class of 1973. He later obtained his Master’s degree from Bridgewater State College. Steve had a long and enjoyable career as a special education teacher, beginning at Hanover Public schools teaching special education kindergarteners. After moving to St. Coletta’s School, then starting a special education program for St. Thomas More School in Braintree, Steve established Randolph Occupational Workshop (later Greater Randolph Opportunities for Work), an adult day program for adults with special needs. His career culminated at Randolph High School, where he was a special education teacher and served as a track coach and mentor to newer teachers as well as President, Vice President and Grievance Chair of the union throughout the years.

Steve was lucky enough to meet the love of his life, Barbara, at the early age of thirteen in eighth grade math class. Their sixty-year love story brought them an abundance of joy and happiness as they moved from Easton, to Bridgewater and finally to Plymouth.

Steve was an excellent father, always kind, loving and supportive with a limitless sense of humor. Barb and Steve always prioritized their three children, Renee, Jackie, and Michael as well as their spouses Chris, Steve and Sarah whom he loved as his own. They were also blessed with their five grandchildren: Sophie, Ian, Nicholas, Genevieve, and Emily. His grandchildren were loves of his life who affectionately referred to him as “Pa”. Pa introduced his children and grandchildren to the magic of theater, often bringing them to Broadway shows and playing Broadway tunes on the piano. Pa was full of pride to watch his three granddaughters thrive in musical theater throughout their lives. He attended every sporting event, dance recital and theater performance from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to New Hampshire, making sure his children and grandchildren knew that he was their biggest fan. He often specially curated birthday events for all of his grandkids based on their particular interests and passions.

In addition to being an exceptional grandfather, Steve was the loving uncle to Amy, Caroline, and Jessica Pugliesi, and the cousin to Glen Cuzzo, Cindy Sullivan, Barbara Beatty, and Kathy Webster. Steve was the Godfather to Brian and David Sullivan and was also close with their sister, Tracy Sullivan. Steve was a wonderful big brother to his sister, Laurie, as well as being an outstanding uncle to Matt LeBlanc whom he loved like a son. He shared a lifetime of love, laughs and adventures with both Laurie and Matt who were integral to all gatherings and vacations. Steve enjoyed shooting targets with his friend and brother-in-law, Bob Pugliesi, and loved spending time with his sister-in-law, Patty Pugliesi. Steve was especially close to his lifelong friend, David Labbe. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Salvatore J. and Effie R. (Cuozzo) Pugliesi, and his brother-in-law, David J. Pugliesi.

Steve was a public servant in all aspects of his life. He was a family man and problem solver who was always there to lend a hand or give good advice. He was also a prolific blood donor throughout his life, donating the maximum amount allowed for over 40 years. Steve was a seasoned orator, often asked to give speeches, pen a message, or give a eulogy for friends and family. Steve was also a volunteer for the Samaritans organization and assisted people weekly during times of crisis, and with DCFS as a community liaison advocating for at-risk children.

Steve was a self-taught pianist and was a lover of music and an original Parrothead, often attending concerts with his family including the Newport Folk Festival since the early ‘90s.

Steve was a lover of Cape Cod and spent over 30 years summering in Yarmouth, where he and Barb kept their family cottage. Family parties, sleepovers and barbecues were staples throughout the season. Although Steve was not a lover of seafood, he was a talented crabber, fisherman and quahogger, keeping his family well-supplied with fresh fish and shellfish which Barb would lovingly prepare. Steve and Barb have an amazing community of friends and neighbors in Yarmouth who they have shared love, laughs and time with throughout the years including Lisa and Mike with whom he spent many days golfing.

“Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” –Stephen Schwartz, composer of the musical Wicked

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held at Salena, 170 Water Street, Plymouth, on Saturday, May 10, from 1 – 4 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve’s memory may be made to Samaritans, 41 West Street, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02111 or www.samaritanshope.org/donate, or consider donating blood to the American Red Cross.