Andy McLeod, Beloved Athletic Director, Husband to Mary, Mentor and Community Leader, Leaves Behind a Legacy of Love and Dedication: The Laurens Parks & Recreation Department and Entire Laurens Community Mourn His Heartbreaking Passing
Laurens, South Carolina – April 2025 — The Laurens Parks & Recreation Department, together with the entire Laurens community, is mourning the tragic and untimely passing of one of its most cherished figures: Andy McLeod, longtime Athletic Director, beloved husband to Mary McLeod, and an unwavering mentor and friend to generations of youth and families in the region. The loss of Andy McLeod is not just a personal tragedy for his family—it is a profound and deeply felt loss for an entire community that witnessed, benefited from, and was uplifted by his boundless passion, compassionate spirit, and selfless leadership.
Andy McLeod’s passing was confirmed in a heartfelt announcement from the Laurens Parks & Recreation Department, who described him as a beacon of positivity and purpose. In the department’s emotional statement, they wrote:
“Our beloved Athletic Director, Andy McLeod, has finished his game here on Earth and moved on to our Lord’s Kingdom. His passion and love for this program was unmatched, and he left a lasting impression on the youth in Laurens and the surrounding communities.”
A Lifelong Servant to the Community
For over two decades, Andy McLeod dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the mission of the Laurens Parks & Recreation Department. His leadership was not just administrative; it was deeply personal. To Andy, this wasn’t just a job—it was a calling. He believed in the power of youth sports to transform lives, to provide structure, to teach values, and to unify people from all walks of life.
Andy’s passion for youth development extended far beyond the baseball fields and basketball courts. To every child that walked onto the field uncertain, he was a coach. To every teen struggling to find their way, he was a mentor. To countless parents navigating the challenges of raising children, he was a friend, a counselor, and a symbol of stability.
A Presence That Could Not Be Missed
Whether it was an early morning tee-ball game or a late-night high school basketball tournament, Andy McLeod was there—clipboard in hand, whistle around his neck, and encouragement in his voice. His presence was commanding yet kind. He never missed a moment to cheer, to console, or to inspire.
Those who had the honor of knowing Andy describe him as “the heart of the department.” His laughter, booming and contagious, was a common soundtrack at local games. His encouragement—spoken in countless pep talks and quiet one-on-one chats—helped build not just better athletes, but better people.
A Visionary Leader
Andy didn’t just manage programs—he built them from the ground up. Under his leadership, the Laurens Parks & Recreation Department expanded its offerings, improved its facilities, and became a cornerstone institution in Laurens County. He launched initiatives to ensure that no child was left behind due to financial hardship, disability, or social barriers.
He fought tirelessly for inclusivity, always advocating for access and equity. Whether it was new equipment for a growing soccer league, fundraising for travel costs for underprivileged kids, or late-night facility maintenance, Andy was involved, often hands-on. His work ethic was legendary.
A Mentor Beyond the Game
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Andy’s legacy is how deeply he affected people on a personal level. For former athletes, he was a constant presence—not only on the field but long after they hung up their jerseys. He wrote letters of recommendation for college scholarships, attended graduations and weddings, and remained a mentor for life.
Many who once played under his direction have gone on to become coaches, teachers, community leaders, and parents who now enroll their own children in the programs he built. His teachings—centered around discipline, kindness, perseverance, and faith—continue to ripple outward.
In a tribute shared by a former student-athlete, now a coach himself, he said:
“Coach McLeod taught me how to win with humility, lose with dignity, and live with purpose. He didn’t just teach sports—he taught life.”
A Devoted Family Man
Beyond his work in the community, Andy was a devoted family man. His wife, Mary McLeod, stood by his side throughout his journey, supporting his mission and sharing in his service. Together, they were active in their church, organized community events, and opened their home to youth in need of guidance or a warm meal.
In this time of grief, the Laurens Parks & Recreation Department has asked the community to hold Mary in their thoughts and prayers. The department stated:
“Mary was Andy’s anchor and his greatest joy. Their love was evident to anyone who saw them together. In this difficult time, we ask that you lift her up in love and prayer, just as Andy lifted all of us throughout his life.”
Plans for Honoring a Community Legend
The Laurens Parks & Recreation Department is currently working with the McLeod family to coordinate a series of tributes and memorials that will celebrate Andy’s extraordinary life and the impact he made. Plans include:
- A Community Memorial Service, open to all, to be held at the Laurens Recreation Center where Andy spent countless hours coaching, mentoring, and organizing.
- A Youth Scholarship Fund to be established in Andy’s name, supporting access to sports programs for underprivileged youth.
- A Memorial Plaque and Bench to be installed at the main baseball field, with a dedication ceremony planned for the summer season opener.
- Annual “Andy McLeod Day” to celebrate community spirit, mentorship, and athleticism in his honor.
An Enduring Spirit
Though Andy’s time on Earth has come to an end, his influence is eternal. His legacy lives on in every child who finds joy in sports, in every parent who watches from the bleachers with pride, and in every coach who believes in the potential of their team.
He leaves behind a living, breathing legacy—built not of trophies or titles, but of lives changed for the better. As the Laurens community navigates this difficult time, they do so with the enduring guidance of Andy’s example.
The fields may fall silent for a time. The scoreboard lights may dim. But Andy McLeod’s spirit—his generosity, his laughter, his unwavering belief in the good in people—will shine brightly through the generations.
Final Words from the Department
In their final tribute, the Laurens Parks & Recreation Department shared:
“Andy McLeod’s game here may be over, but his work is far from finished. His vision lives on in every program we offer, every child we support, and every life we touch. We promise to carry his torch with pride, compassion, and relentless love for our community. Thank you, Andy, for everything. We will never forget you.”
A Community in Mourning, A Legacy of Hope
As Laurens comes together to grieve the loss of this beloved leader, they do so united—grateful for the time they had, inspired by his legacy, and determined to honor his memory by continuing the work he loved so dearly.
Andy McLeod may have left the field, but his jersey will never be hung up. His number, his name, and his legacy will echo through Laurens’ gyms, parks, and hearts forever.
