Burgess Leon McCaleb, 87, passed away peacefully with his children by his side on December 17th, 2022. Leon was born August 23rd, 1935, and lived in Craig County his entire life. He, courageously and without complaints, battled cancer for years. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Martha Mitchell McCaleb, his parents Alfred and Muriel McCaleb, father-in-law and mother-in-law Dr. Walton F. and Lucille Mitchell, sister Gerlene Humphreys, sister and brother-in-law Emogene and Paul Bradford, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Walton F. and Evelyn Mitchell Jr., and sister-in-law Betty Mitchell.
Left to treasure his beautiful memories are his two children Michelle “Missy” (Bill) Frazier and Burgess “Mack” (Donna) Leon McCaleb Jr., his grandchildren Ryan (Sierra) Frazier, Brittany (Corey) Phillips, and Dylan and Taylor McCaleb, great-grandchildren, Emerson Phillips, Judson and Finley Frazier, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Patsy and Calvin Duncan, special friend Betty Ring, numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends.
Leon proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1958-1960. He was a pillar in the community as he was instrumental in helping to build the Field of Dreams and keeping the Fairgrounds open for future generations. He created many beautiful trails during his years at the US Forestry Department where he retired in 1994. Leon was a kind, helpful soul and so many people benefited from his endless generosity. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and using his work equipment to help anyone in need. Leon was quite talented and loved working in his shop to make beautiful Christmas décor and other crafts. He never encountered a project too big or problem too complex.
Visitation will be held at the New Castle Christian Church on 12/20/2022 from 6:00 – 8:30p.m. A funeral service will be held at New Castle Christian Church on 12/21/2022 at 11:00a.m. with Pastor Mike Bowman and Reverend Randall Blankenship officiating. A graveside service will follow at the Huffman Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests all donations be made to the Field of Dreams, P.O. Box 371, New Castle, VA, 24127.
