Leroy Thomas Decembly Sr. entered this world on February 9, 1942, in Mayslick, Kentucky. He was the only son of Perry Thomas and Geraldine Decembly. At the age of 5, he migrated to Cleveland, Ohio with his mother and two sisters.  He had a difficult childhood but turned this adversity into a drive to succeed in life.

Leroy started working while in elementary school. He did everything from selling pop bottles, running errands, throwing papers, and working in the grocery store to provide for himself. He was never one to stop making progress in life.  He truly lived by his motto: Get it for yourself and you know you got it.  He attended East High School where he joined the wrestling team, lifted weights, played football, and was referred to as the “170 lbs. bolt of lightning.”

After graduating from East High School, he attended Erma Lee Barber college where he completed his education in 1963 and became a licensed barber, an occupation that he held for 60+ years. He was one of the original Old School Gs who made finger waves one of the hottest hair trends in Cleveland. Affectionately known as Mr. Dee, he opened his own shop, Mr. Dee’s Coiffure Boutique in the Mt. Pleasant/Kinsman area. His shop was a community anchor and social hub for individuals from all walks of life for over 40 years.

He married the love of his life, Dorothy Decembly, in 1963.  She was his soft place to land and an excellent cook. She captured his heart and his stomach. From this union four children were born: Trina Decembly, Lenore Decembly, Leroy Thomas (Velma) Decembly Jr., and Cotilia Decembly. His top priority was to ensure that his family was together, provided for and secure. Not a man of many words, he taught many lessons by how he carried himself and how he lived his life.  He was never one to complain or to give up.

Always a prolific dresser, he was known for wearing the latest style clothing with a fashionable hat. Leroy enjoyed watching sports, westerns, politics and entertainment shows like The Voice. He also loved to visit different cities and enjoyed sightseeing.

Leroy accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior as a young man.  He re-dedicated his life to Christ in his later years and was a member of The Word church. He was preceded in death by his parents Perry Decembly, Geraldine Decembly, sisters Bonnie Decembly and Janell (John) Brannon, and brother Charles Anthony Decembly.

His legacy will continue through his wife, kids and grandchildren: Latisha Decembly, Leroy Thomas Decembly III, Shari Parrish, Jacee Moon, Joseph Moon, Jocelyn Moon, seven great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He will be missed but never forgotten.