Father Joe LeClair, the longtime Ottawa priest affectionately known to parishioners as Father Joe, has died. He passed away peacefully among family on Thursday evening, October 8, 2026, according to Father John Orban of St. Leonard Parish, who confirmed the news to CTV News Ottawa. Further details surrounding his death have not been released.
LeClair became a well-known figure in Ottawa’s Catholic community through his years of service at Blessed Sacrament Church in the Glebe neighbourhood. His engaging sermons, gift for storytelling and ability to connect with parishioners helped make him a popular priest, attracting churchgoers from across the city and surrounding suburbs.
Throughout his ministry, Father Joe became part of many significant moments in the lives of Ottawa residents. He presided over the weddings of former Ottawa mayor Larry O’Brien and longtime Ottawa Senators player Chris Phillips, among many others. His pastoral work and public profile established him as a familiar figure within the local community.
His life and ministry also included a difficult period of public controversy. In 2014, LeClair apologised to the congregation at Blessed Sacrament Church after admitting to defrauding the church of $130,000. He attributed his actions to a gambling addiction and acknowledged the harm he had caused to the church and priesthood. After pleading guilty to theft and fraud, he was sentenced to 12 months in jail and received an early release in November 2014.
Despite the controversy, many parishioners continued to express their support for LeClair. Some attended his court proceedings, demonstrating the personal connections he had formed during his years of ministry. His case remained a significant chapter in his public life, alongside his longstanding service to the Catholic community.
Following his release, LeClair served as an assistant priest at Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish in Moncton before returning to work in Ottawa in 2018. In his later ministry, he assisted with Masses and pastoral care at St. Leonard Church in Manotick. Before his legal troubles, he had also hosted a programme on Newstalk 580 CFRA.
News of Father Joe’s death marks the passing of a priest whose life included decades of pastoral service, strong relationships with parishioners and significant personal challenges. As Ottawa’s Catholic community reflects on his life, those who knew him may remember both his contribution to parish life and the complicated experiences that shaped his journey.
Father Joe LeClair’s passing leaves a lasting mark on those who encountered him through his ministry and community involvement. Condolences go to his family, friends, former parishioners and all those mourning his death.
May Father Joe LeClair rest in peace.