The Cincinnati community is mourning the passing of Simon L. Leis Jr., the longtime public servant who dedicated decades of his life to law enforcement and the judicial system in Hamilton County. Leis died at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy that spanned more than half a century of public service as a prosecutor, judge, and sheriff.
Born on June 12, 1934, Simon Leis built an extraordinary career rooted in public service. After graduating from Xavier University and serving in the United States Marine Corps, he earned his law degree and began working in the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office. His commitment to justice and public safety would define the remainder of his professional life.
Leis served as Hamilton County Prosecutor from 1971 to 1983, overseeing numerous high-profile criminal cases and becoming one of the most recognizable legal figures in southwest Ohio. Following his tenure as prosecutor, he was appointed to the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas, where he served as a judge before embarking on the role for which many residents remember him most—Hamilton County Sheriff.
From 1987 until his retirement in 2012, Simon Leis served as sheriff of Hamilton County, leading one of Ohio’s largest sheriff’s offices for 25 years. During his tenure, he became known for his strong stance on law enforcement, public safety initiatives, and efforts to modernize operations within the department. His decades of leadership left a lasting impact on the county’s criminal justice system and the many deputies and officers who served under his command.
Throughout his career, Leis received recognition for his dedication to public service. In 2024, Hamilton County officials honored him with a commemorative plaque at the Hamilton County Justice Center, recognizing his extensive contributions as prosecutor, judge, sheriff, and Marine Corps veteran. The tribute reflected the respect he earned over a lifetime of service to the Cincinnati community.
News of his passing has prompted tributes from current and former law enforcement officials, members of the legal community, and residents throughout the region. Many have remembered Simon Leis as a steadfast public servant whose influence on Hamilton County extended across generations.
At the time of publication, the family has not publicly released additional details regarding funeral arrangements or memorial services. Friends, colleagues, and community members continue to extend their condolences while honoring a man whose career helped shape law enforcement and the administration of justice in Hamilton County for decades.
As Cincinnati reflects on Simon Leis’s remarkable life, he is remembered as a dedicated Marine, accomplished attorney, respected judge, longtime sheriff, and devoted public servant whose commitment to protecting and serving his community leaves an enduring legacy. His decades of leadership and public service will continue to be remembered by all who had the privilege of working alongside him and benefiting from his contributions.