Ronald Bruce Ley

Ronald Bruce Ley, Sr., 92, of Westbrook, passed away on February 16, 2026. He was born on October 6, 1933, in Ansonia, Connecticut. He is preceded in death by his daughter Darlene Daly, a grand-daughter Natalie Ley, his mother, Vivian Beal-Ley, his father, John Ley, his sisters, Doreetha Cianci and Roberta Collera, and his brother Bryant Ley.

A proud veteran, he served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long career with The Lee Company, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.

On September 7, 1957, he married Shirley Lindner, with whom he shared 68 years of love and partnership. Together they raised four children, the late Darlene Daly and Bill of Westbrook, CT; Ronald Ley and Teresa of Fernandina Beach, FL; Kelly Schurk and Fred of Myrtle Beach, SC and Karen West and Steve of Deep River, CT. He took great pride in his growing family, which includes eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He taught all of his grandchildren the art of playing checkers and how to fish and crab along the Connecticut shoreline. Time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren was his greatest joy.

A talented woodworker, he spent countless hours in his workshop creating handcrafted pieces for family, friends, and neighbors. His well known wooden wheelbarrows and spoon chimes can still be found in front yards throughout the community, a lasting reminder of his craftsmanship.

He loved to travel and visited many destinations over the years, including Italy, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Alaska and numerous locations along the eastern seaboard. He often shared stories from his childhood in Ansonia, especially memories of shining shoes outside the local Catholic church.

He was a longtime member of the Elks Club and an active participant in a vintage car club, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and shared interests of fellow members.

He will be remembered for his devotion to family, his generosity, his storytelling, his beautiful smile and laughter, as well as, the many handcrafted pieces he leaves behind.

A celebration of his life will be held at Robinson, Wright and Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook, CT on Friday, February 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm, with prayers and military honors to follow starting at 2:00pm

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.