It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Jeff Harloff, former Emergency Management Coordinator for Ontario County, who departed this life after a courageous battle with illness. His passing marks the end of an era in local public service and leaves a profound void in the hearts of colleagues, friends, and community members whose lives he so deeply impacted.
Jeff’s name was synonymous with leadership, integrity, and calm in the face of crisis. For years, he served as the backbone of emergency response coordination across Ontario County, dedicating himself to the safety and preparedness of the region with an unwavering sense of duty and a passion for service. His legacy is not only measured in the countless emergencies he helped manage but in the trust he earned and the example he set for future generations of public safety professionals.
A Lifetime of Service
Jeff Harloff was more than just an official — he was a true public servant, someone who believed that keeping his community safe was more than a job; it was a calling. Whether responding to natural disasters, large-scale accidents, public health crises, or leading training exercises to improve readiness, Jeff approached every situation with competence, composure, and care.
As Ontario County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, he was a central figure in developing response plans, fostering collaboration between departments, and building strong relationships with state and federal agencies. His forward-thinking leadership helped transform the county’s emergency infrastructure, ensuring that no crisis ever caught the region unprepared.
He was also a passionate advocate for education and outreach, regularly leading community preparedness programs and mentoring younger professionals in the field. For many, he was the voice of reason when tensions ran high — the steady hand that guided response teams through uncertainty and the friendly face residents trusted in times of fear.
A Colleague and Mentor
Those fortunate enough to work with Jeff speak of his unparalleled work ethic, his humility, and his sense of humor that could break the tension in even the most serious situations. He had a gift for connecting people, making everyone — from first responders to local residents — feel like they were part of something bigger.
“He wasn’t just our coordinator; he was our compass,” said a longtime coworker. “He led with heart and with purpose, and he always made sure that people felt supported, even on their hardest days.”
Jeff was often the first to arrive and the last to leave during emergencies. He never asked for recognition and often worked behind the scenes, driven not by accolades but by an authentic desire to help others. He was, in every sense, the kind of leader communities are lucky to have — and even luckier to remember.
A Life Beyond the Uniform
Away from his professional responsibilities, Jeff was a devoted husband, father, friend, and neighbor. He loved the outdoors, was known to enjoy a good cup of coffee with friends, and could often be found volunteering at local events or helping someone in need — often without being asked.
His family was the center of his world, and despite the demanding nature of his career, he never missed an opportunity to be present in the lives of those he loved. His kindness, loyalty, and deep moral compass extended well beyond the workplace, earning him admiration not just as a leader but as a man.
A Legacy That Lives On
Jeff Harloff’s passing is a tremendous loss, but his legacy will endure — in the lives he protected, the systems he built, and the people he inspired. His contributions will continue to shape Ontario County’s approach to emergency management for decades to come.
In recognition of his service, plans are underway for a public memorial where residents and colleagues will have the opportunity to honor his memory and express their gratitude for his lifetime of dedication. The county has also announced that it will establish the Jeff Harloff Public Safety Scholarship Fund, aimed at supporting students pursuing careers in emergency services — a fitting tribute to a man who believed so deeply in preparing others to serve.
Final Farewell
To know Jeff was to admire him. To work with him was to trust him. To learn from him was a privilege. His presence made Ontario County stronger, safer, and better prepared, and his absence will be felt for years to come.
We extend our deepest condolences to Jeff’s family — his beloved wife and children, his extended relatives, and the many friends and coworkers who considered him family. May they find comfort in knowing that Jeff’s legacy of service, compassion, and quiet heroism will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Jeff Harloff.
Your watch has ended, but your example will forever guide us.
