Renee (Mac) LeVay, a life long resident of Leeds served in WWII as a paratrooper. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge, helping to defeat Germany in their last major offensive of that awful war. When Mac returned home from the war he married his Leeds’ sweetheart, Annette Bachand, and raised three children. Mac was the very first custodian to work at Leeds Elementary School. In fact, in 1953, it was Mac who opened the doors for the first time to students and staff!

Did you know that the Veteran’s Memorial was once located on the Leeds Main Street Green? It was Mac LeVay who took care of that Memorial, raising and lowering the flag, year after year. Unfortunately, the Green became a hang out for wild kids–graffiti and vandalism ensued, so Mac formed a committee with his brother Brad, a Korean War veteran, and other veterans of other wars to research and record the names of all Leeds residents who served their country. Working with the LCA and City Council they relocated an updated Memorial to the current location across from the Leeds School.

The 2017 Memorial Day Ceremony will have a special dedication by Brad LeVay to honor the service of his brother, Renee (Mac) LeVay. Please bring your family and join your Leeds neighbors to honor all who served our country so bravely. Jane Bowie, VA nurse, will be the speaker. There will also be a color guard and a wreath laying ceremony. Hope to see you on Sunday, May 28th!