Rochester attorney Donald O. Chesworth Jr. has died

Donald O. Chesworth Jr., the former managing partner at Tully Rinckey PLLC, died on June 23. He was 84.

A distinguished attorney, public servant, and mentor, his leadership left a lasting impact on the firm, the legal profession, and the Rochester community.

Throughout a legal career spanning more than five decades, Chesworth earned a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

Colleagues remember his steady judgment, humility, and dedication to helping others.

A Yale Law School graduate, he served as an FBI special agent, Monroe County District Attorney, Superintendent of the New York State Police, and co-founder of Harris & Chesworth before joining Tully Rinckey PLLC.

“Don’s life was defined by service, to his clients, his community, and the legal profession,” said Greg Rinckey, founding partner of Tully Rinckey PLLC.

“His accomplishments were extraordinary, but those who knew him best will remember his integrity, humility, and genuine concern for others. He was a trusted leader, mentor, and friend whose impact on our firm and the people within it will be felt for generations,” Rinckey said.

“Don helped shape the culture of excellence, professionalism, and service that defines Tully Rinckey today,” said Michael Macomber, chief executive officer of Tully Rinckey PLLC.

“His leadership strengthened our firm, and his example inspired those around him to approach both the practice of law and public service with integrity and purpose. We are grateful for his many contributions and honored to carry forward the values he exemplified throughout his remarkable career,” Macomber said.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chesworth remained deeply committed to the Rochester community. Over the years, he served on numerous boards and organizations, including the Monroe County Chiefs of Police Association, the Humane Society of Rochester, the New York State Trooper Foundation, Crime Stoppers, LifeSpan, and the Rochester Community Boating Foundation.

An avid sailor, he enjoyed spending time aboard his sailboat, Independence, and served as Commodore of the Rochester Yacht Club.

“Don had a remarkable ability to lead with both strength and compassion,” said Anthony Kuhn, managing partner at Tully Rinckey PLLC.

“He generously shared his knowledge and experience, always taking the time to guide and encourage others. I was fortunate to work alongside him, and his wisdom, professionalism, and friendship will be deeply missed,” Kuhn said.

Chesworth, who retired on March 31, decided to become a lawyer as a teen.

After earning his juris doctor at Yale Law School in 1966, Chesworth worked as a special agent in the FBI.

In 1976, he became the Second Assistant Monroe County District Attorney. In 1977 he was promoted to First Assistant District Attorney.

He was appointed District Attorney in 1981 by then-Gov. Hugh Carey, and subsequently elected to a full term.

In 1983 then-Gov. Mario Cuomo appointed Chesworth to be Superintendent of the New York State Police.

“I think I’ve been very fortunate to be in the right place to do good things for people and to protect the public,” he said in May.

In 1987, Chesworth went into private law practice. Chesworth and Wayne Harris founded the firm of Harris & Chesworth, the predecessor firm of Harris, Chesworth, Johnstone & Welch LLP.

Chesworth joined Tully Rinckey in September 2018 as managing partner of the firm’s Rochester office.

Chesworth is survived by his wife, Marilyn Schantz-Chesworth; daughters Cynthia Grace Thompson and Deborah Kathryn Bardeen; son Donald O. Chesworth III; and five grandchildren.

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