Leah Elena Closinski, 57, of Rome, NY, passed away unexpectedly at Westchester Medical Center on January 29, 2026 with family by her side. Born in Boston, MA on May 8, 1968, she was a daughter of Robert Brookes and Lidia Maximenko. In her youth, Leah traveled internationally, attending school in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Dover, England. She eventually settled in Rome, where she built her life and raised her beloved daughters with their father, Joseph Closinski.  Leah was a well-educated person, holding degrees from MVCC, SUNY Oneonta, and Touro College.

Leah was a cherished and admired educator with unwavering dedication to the students and staff of Ridge Mills Elementary in Rome. Leah touched many lives in her time working there and had a true gift, always going above and beyond for each of her students and colleagues.

Leah was a tenacious advocate and protector of her family, friends, and anyone who needed help. Leah applied her passion to her work as a life sister with Delta Omega Sorority, member of the Ridge Mills PTG, advocate with the Rome Teachers Association, and other community organizations.

While her connection with students and colleagues in the education community defined Leah’s life, nothing was more important to her than her daughters, Elizabeth and Emily. Her daughters will always treasure their mother’s legacy of showing unconditional love, kindness, and selflessness to not only them, but everyone around her.

Leah is predeceased by her biological father, Merrick Cheney. She is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Closinski (Jacob Hatfield) of Rome, and Emily Closinski (Ian Wiernicki) of Utica; parents Robert and Lidia Brookes of FL; brother Zachary Brookes of FL; sisters Larissa (Elizabeth) Brookes-La Blanc of NJ and Alika Brookes Rose of FL; former husband, Joseph Closinski; nieces Charlotte, Willa, and Clara Brookes-La Blanc, Hayley and Hannah Rose; and close family friends Christopher Takacs, Jennifer Destito, and their families.

Calling hours will be held Thursday February 5, 2026, from 3:00-6:00 PM at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd. Rome, NY 13440. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, Leah’s family asks for donations to the Ridge Mills PTG or the YWCA of the Mohawk Valley.