In loving memory of Leslie Blaine McKay, formerly of Andover

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Leslie Blaine McKay, age 85, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Smithfield, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born Dec. 14, 1940, to Ivan and Isabelle McKay of Bolivar, N.Y., Les grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, independence and the simple joys of life. Over the years he embraced many roles — son, father, husband, entrepreneur, veteran and a true jack‑of‑all‑trades — and he lived each of them with authenticity and heart.

In 1962, Les had a daughter, Julie Seaton Winterhalter who later blessed him with a grandson, Josh, now married to Carol, and their daughter (Les’s great-granddaughter), Lunesa.

Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1963, Les served as a helicopter mechanic, spending time in Panama and dedicating two years of his life to military service. His mechanical skill, resourcefulness and steady presence made him a valued member of his unit.

Les married the love of his life, DeAnne McKay, on July 29, 1972 at their home in Andover, N.Y., and together they built a life filled with laughter, resilience, and devotion to family.

Les and DeAnne went on to have two children, Coleigh, who married Sarah Patner in 2002 and Jillian, who were the center of his world. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Isabella (“Bella”), 22; Emily, 19; Alexa, 16; and Bates, 12 — each of whom he adored and supported with pride.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Les poured his energy into building and running his own businesses. Among his many ventures, he proudly opened the first Sub Shop in Alfred, N.Y., a place that became a local staple and a reflection of his creativity and work ethic.  In the 1980s, he went on to start the Andover Trading Post. No matter what the project, Les approached it with determination, ingenuity, and the belief that he could figure out just about anything.

Above all, Les lived life on his own terms. He loved being surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories, laughing loudly and making sure everyone around him had a good time. His greatest wish was simple: that people enjoy each other’s company and find joy in the moments they shared.

Les will be remembered for his humor, his independence, his generosity and the unmistakable spark he brought into every room. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the countless lives he touched.  In addition to his direct family, he is survived by many nieces and nephews throughout the country and extensive family members in the Bolivar and surrounding areas.

He was predeceased by his parents Ivan and Isabelle, his sisters Betty, Shirley and Joan as well as brothers Jerry, Tom and Pete.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 619 Lever Hill Road, now known as Lever Hill Lodge, in Andover.