The Leesburg community is deeply mourning the sudden loss of Scott Christley, the longtime owner of SkateWorld and a cherished figure in the town. Scott, who ran the local skating rink for decades, was a beloved community leader known for his kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and business.
News of his passing was shared by his family on social media, where they remembered him as a devoted husband, father, and pillar of the community. His daughter reflected on his legacy, writing, “He was the perfect example of a leader—strong, kind, and steady—and his spirit will forever be with me. The love my dad showed my momma gave me a true vision of what ‘til death do us part’ really means.”
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SkateWorld, a fixture in Leesburg for generations, announced it would close on Thursday to allow both family and staff time to grieve and honor Scott’s memory. Under his leadership, SkateWorld wasn’t just a place to skate; it became a gathering spot for families, youth groups, and community events. Locals credit Scott for creating a safe, welcoming environment where children could have fun, build friendships, and feel part of something larger than themselves.
Friends and community members have expressed their sorrow, remembering Scott as approachable, generous, and always ready with a smile. The Leesburg Class of 1979 shared their tribute, stating, “We have lost a great friend and classmate, Scott Christley. His family provides so much fun for many Leesburg people with SkateWorld. Pray for his family.”
Scott’s death has left a significant void in the town’s small-business community, where he was as respected for his family values and faith as for his dedication to his business. In a statement, his family shared that they are surrounded by loved ones as they navigate this difficult time and asked for patience and prayers as they grieve.
They expressed comfort in their faith, saying, “Sometimes we question why, and sometimes the Lord whispers, ‘It’s not my plan.’ We’re holding onto the peace of knowing he is now resting with the Lord.”
Funeral arrangements for Scott have not yet been announced.