In this photo from 2014, former Senator Tom Libous, left, and Town of Owego Supervisor, Donald Castellucci Jr. held a press conference at Hickories Park in Owego, N.Y. to discuss details of the construction of a new band shell at Hickories Park. (File Photo / JoAnn R. Walter)
On May 3, the community learned that former New York State Senator Tom Libous, age 63, lost his battle with prostate cancer.
Libous was a native to the area, and was raised in Johnson City, N.Y. He began his political career in 1984 in Binghamton, N.Y. and was later elected as a state senator.
Libous was diagnosed in 2009 with prostate cancer, but continued to serve, even throughout his treatment.
Libous’ career ended in 2015 when he was found guilty of lying to the FBI.
But Libous worked hard for his community throughout his 30 years of service.
Libous carried out his BOOKS Program within the community to promote reading. He carried out this program, as well as others, to integrate himself, personally, among his constituents.
Libous worked hard to bring money into the area from Albany for projects, and infrastructure.
Libous was also a strong advocate for area businesses. Libous stood behind Tioga Downs Casino from the ground up and was a strong voice in Albany.
Libous was described as someone who worked tirelessly, both in Albany and back home, for those he represented.
In a statement received Tuesday evening from Don Leonard, chair of Tioga County’s Republican Committee, he stated that Tioga County is mourning the passing of a great friend.
In his statement, he wrote, “Since his election to the Senate in 1988, Tom Libous has been a tireless advocate for our communities and kept fighting for us long after everyone else went home for the day. Rest in Peace Tom Libous. We will always miss you.”
Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs, also made a statement following the passing of Tom Libous.
“No one cared more about the people in the Southern Tier,” said Gural. He added, “Tioga Downs would not exist without his support and encouragement; he was a good friend and I will miss him.”
Owego Town Supervisor Don Castellucci Jr. offered a statement as well upon learning about the death of Senator Tom Libous.
In a statement, Castellucci wrote, “All of us in the Town of Owego were saddened by the news of the passing of Tom Libous. The dedication and efforts of Senator Libous on behalf of the Town were tireless and effective. Tom Libous will be missed by the entire region and New York State. May God give him peace and rest his soul.”
A Funeral Mass was planned for Saturday, at 10 a.m. at the Church of The Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis St., Endwell. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family was expected to receive relatives and friends at Church of The Holy Family on Friday from 1 to 7 p.m.
Libous wished that in lieu of flowers, please contribute to Mercy House, 212 North McKinley Ave., Endicott, N.Y. 13760, where Tom spent the last days of his life in comfort and surrounded by love and family.
