LEROY E. MCKENZIE
Leroy E. McKenzie, 85, devoted husband of Ruby McKenzie, died on Monday, Oct. 26, 2020, at his place of residence in Sumter.
Born on Jan. 15, 1935, in New Zion, he was a son of the late Daniel and Polly E. McKenzie. He grew up in the home and under the leadership of his uncle and aunt, Willie and Fannie Montgomery. He received his formal education from Savage-Glover Elementary School, Lincoln High School and Morris College. He received his mortician's degree from Atlanta College of Mortuary Sciences.
Mr. McKenzie was drafted into the U.S. armed forces while attending Morris College. Upon returning home from Germany, he married Ruby Tindal. From this union six children were born.
He gave his all to help many who were in need. Financial and physical help were made available whenever requested by others. He saw to it that if it were needed, and he was informed about it, he would render services or found someone who could provide it. He was a father and friend to many who loved him dearly, and he would give his last dollar to help when needed. He donated money or gave small jobs to help others to get off narcotics.
He rendered embalming and managerial services to Sumter Funeral Services, which he co-founded, Community Funeral Services, Jackson, James, Williams, Samuels Funeral Home of Manning and Square Deal of Bishopville. He viewed his services as a work of art. He received many compliments from other morticians that he was the best in South Carolina. He knew his craft and delivered it well.
He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving wife, Ruby McKenzie; six children, Veronica (Lonnie) Ford, Leroy Alvin Jr., the twins, Sharon Jean (George) Bright and Sherrie Joyce (Herbert) Johnson, Marsha Patrice McKenzie and Dr. Jacqueline McKenzie; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sandra Mack.
A public viewing will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. today at Summerton Funeral Home Chapel, 23 S. Duke St., Summerton.
A second public viewing will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday at Sumter Funeral Services, 623 Manning Ave., Sumter.
A private graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Evergreen Memorial Park, 802 N. Guignard Drive, Sumter, with remarks from the Rev. Dr. Lewis Walker Jr.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Summerton Funeral Home LLC and Sumter Funeral Services.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Morris College Music Department.