Liberatore Cestra

Liberatore Cestra or “Lee” as he was known to friends, was born July 17,1933 in Giglio di Veroli, Italy and passed away on July 27th, 2025 having just marked his 92nd birthday.

With his mom Elettra, he emigrated to the United States as an early teen, reuniting with his father Gerardo, who arrived years earlier and settled in Schenectady, NY.

Lee embraced the American lifestyle and went on to serve his adoptive country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean War conflict. He was stationed in Washington, DC and worked Eisenhower’s security detail.

Having served his country, Lee returned to Italy where he met and married his wife Dora Iaboni. The newlyweds returned to his beloved Schenectady to build a life. Lee worked in a chemical plant and Dora as a seamstress.

Lee and Dora were regulars at Our Lady Queen of Peace parish. Lee was known as a friend to be counted on during tougher times and quietly lent family and close friends' money when they needed a helping hand. He never sought or wanted recognition.

Lee was direct and always told people exactly what he thought, never one to pull punches. Despite attempting to start a family, fate was cruel to Lee and Dora losing two infant daughters Teresa Maria and Cynthia Lisa. They overcame these tragedies and spent more than 60 years together as respected members of the Schenectady community.

Although Lee’s presence may no longer grace our lives, his spirit will remain with us always.

Funeral Services will be Friday at 10am at the Bond Funeral Home 1614 Guilderland Avenue Schenectady followed by a Mass at 10:30am at Our Lady Queen of Peace Church 210 Princetown Road Rotterdam. Visitation will be from 9-10 prior at the funeral home. 

Interment St. Joseph's Cemetery, Schenectady.