Rev. J.R. McLeod

Rev. James (J.R.) McLeod of Raiford, FL, a devoted servant of God and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, August 15, 2023, at the age of 85, in Gainesville, FL. Born on February 14, 1938, he spent his formative years in Lake Butler, FL.

A Baptist minister for 35 years, Rev. McLeod's life was marked by his unwavering faith and dedication to his calling. He led congregations in Gainesville, Jacksonville, and Greenville, FL as well as in the Raleigh, NC area. In 2004, he retired from his pastoral duties and returned to his roots in Raiford, FL. During his retirement, he found joy in working alongside his brother at the family barber shop in Lake Butler, FL.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Cyril and Dorrie Crawford McLeod, his brother Elliot McLeod, and his sister-in-law Carolyn McLeod.

Rev. McLeod's memory will forever by cherished by his loving wife, Hilda Conner McLeod, his sons Jeff of Martinsburg, WV, and Randy of Jacksonville, FL. He is also survived by his 3 grandsons Riley McLeod, Ross (Kristen) McLeod, and Marc (Teagan) McLeod, along with 3 granddaughters Zandy (Zach) McLeod Hicks, Nikki McLeod, and Andrea (Eric) McLeod Lester, His great-granddaughter Zayla Hicks, completes his family circle.

A service to celebrate the remarkable life of Reverend James R. McLeod will take place on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at 10:30am at First Baptist Church in Raiford, FL. Family, friends, and all those touched by his life are invited to gather to honor his memory. A burial will follow at Elzey Chapel Cemetery, Worthington Springs, FL.

Prior to the service, a visitation will be held on Friday, August 18, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Archer-Milton Funeral Home in Lake Butler.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Haven Hospice in honor of Reverend McLeod's lifelong dedication to service others and spreading God's love.

Rest in eternal peace, dear Reverend James R. McLeod. Your light will forever guide us through the journey of life.