Leo George McGee

**Obituary for Leo George McGee**

Leo George McGee, age 77, of Rosedale, Mississippi, peacefully passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the Bolivar Medical Center Long Term Care Unit.

Born on October 8, 1947, to Leo Harry McGee and Martha Bradley McGee in Rosedale, Leo was raised in Gunnison and graduated from Rosedale High School. He went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Political Science from Mississippi State University and later honed his pottery skills at Delta State University. Leo began his career working on the family farm, and as his journey unfolded, he ventured into the restaurant business on Beale Street in Memphis, where he developed a profound appreciation for the Blues. He proudly owned Leo's on the Levee in Rosedale, which became a beloved spot in the community.

An influential figure in the local music scene, Leo helped found the Rosedale Blues Society and cherished the memories of the many remarkable individuals he encountered during his years in the restaurant industry. At home, Leo's passion for cooking brought joy to family gatherings, while his talent in pottery flourished in his personal studio, where he created many treasured pieces. His work was recognized when he received 2nd place at the inaugural Crostie Arts Festival in Cleveland, MS.

Leo enjoyed nature and fellowship with friends and family at Donaldson Point. He was an avid Mississippi State Bulldog fan, enjoying the tailgating activities and everything Bulldogs. Following his retirement, he dedicated much of his time to crafting pottery and offered his service as a lay minister at the Rosedale Methodist Church, where he was a devoted member for many years. Known for his warm heart and welcoming spirit, Leo never met a stranger and embraced people from all walks of life. His granddaughter Heesy, had this to say about him: He loved his family more than anything. There wasn't a time we left each other or hung up the phone without him telling me he loved me- not one single time. We gathered as a family regularly, and gathering with him was always full of laughter, the best food, good stories and conversation, and just so much love. I'll miss his smile and his "I love you's". I'll miss his presence so much-I'll miss the healthy, happy, loving, and carefree Leo that I have so many memories of. I'm so thankful for 34 years I got to have him in my life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Martha McGee, and his sister, Julia Helen Latham. He is survived by his wife, Dabney Parker McGee of Rosedale, MS; loving and devoted daughters, Amy McGee Vance (Jonathan) of Merigold, MS and Meg Bradley McGee of Cleveland, MS; sisters, Bradley Lipsey of Aberdeen, MS and Elizabeth Hester of Monroe, GA; brother-in-law, Bobby Latham of Claremore, OK; step-children, James Dale Jr. of Greenwood, MS, and Mary Dabney Dale of Starkville, MS; grandchildren, Heesy Vance and Seth Vance (Peyton); and great-grandchildren, Kate Norquist, Jon Holder, and Nellie Vance.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Rosedale Methodist Church, followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial Service at 12:00 PM, officiated by Reverend Marty Tubbs.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rosedale Methodist Church, Post Office Box 69, Rosedale, MS 38769.

Cleveland Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements during this difficult time. Leo's legacy of kindness, creativity, and joy will forever be cherished by his family and friends.