Obituary of Leland Earl Springstead

Leland Earl Springstead, 77, of Spafford, passed away at home January 10, 2026, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, kindness, and quiet integrity that will live on in all who knew him.

Leland was a man of deep character and steady presence. He lived simply and intentionally, valuing health, hard work, and time spent outdoors. An avid walker and camper, he found peace in nature and maintained a wholesome lifestyle rooted in home-cooked meals and daily movement. For many years, he was a proud member of the team that led the P&C Foods sixhorse hitch in parades and community events. In quieter moments, he enjoyed old westerns, NASCAR, Sudoku puzzles, reading, and bird watching.

A graduate of Marcellus Senior High School, Leland was a Vietnam Veteran who proudly served our country. Following his military service, he worked for many years as a grocery distribution driver for Penn Traffic, from which he retired. He took pride in his work and was known for his reliability, dedication, and strong work ethic.

He was a devoted husband and a loving stepfather, offering unwavering support, wisdom, and care to his family. Leland was not loud in his love, but it was constant and dependable—shown through actions, reliability, and an unspoken assurance that he would always be there. Those closest to him will also fondly remember his lighter side, including the occasional yodel that never failed to bring a smile and a bit of joy to any moment. His family knew him as steady, thoughtful, and deeply loyal.

Leland was preceded in death by his parents, Laurel (Leader) Springstead and Eugene Springstead; his sister, Elaine Becker; his brother, Allen E. Springstead; and his step-grandson, James E. Holmes, Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Muriel (MacLachlan) Springstead; his stepchildren, Sue Ellen (James) Holmes and Timothy D. Van Camp, Jr.; his step-granddaughter, Jessica (Johncarlos) Holmes; his step-great-granddaughter; his sister, Jill Henry; and his brother, Steve Springstead.

Calling hours will be held from 1-3 pm on Saturday, January 24 at Ryan Funeral Home in Marcellus, followed by a funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Leland's memory to Friends of Marcellus Park or Honor Flight Syracuse.

Leland Earl Springstead will be deeply missed and forever remembered.