Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania President Judge P. Kevin Brobson released the following statement on behalf of the court upon the passing of retired Schuylkill County Judge Joseph F. McCloskey.

“Judge McCloskey served the courts with honor and distinction. He was well-known and widely respected for his commitment and dedication to public service and to his community. Today the courts and the organized bar mourn the loss of a leader and friend. He will be greatly missed.”

McCloskey was appointed to the Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas in 1975, elected to a full term in 1977 and served until his retirement in 1998. He served as president judge from 1980 to 1998.

Following his retirement from Common Pleas Court, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court appointed Judge McCloskey to serve as a senior judge on the Commonwealth Court. He served as a Commonwealth Court senior judge through 2009.