William Lasater McLeod Jr. ’53

Bill, an attorney, state legislator, and judge, died Jan. 19, 2003, in Lake Charles, La.

At Princeton he was an officer in Whig-Clio and participated in debate panels and the senate. He was a history major, a member of Campus Club, and graduated magna cum laude.

A graduate of LSU Law School, he began private practice in 1958. He served 23 years in the Louisiana House and Senate. In 1990, Bill was elected a district judge, and when he retired from the bench in 1997, resumed private practice. Bill volunteered for numerous charitable and civic causes. He sponsored changes in state government that continue to benefit Louisiana. His leadership, honesty, and independence earned him respect and admiration throughout the state.

He was an Eagle Scout and received the Silver Beaver award. He was an elder of the First Presbyterian Church. Bill enjoyed playing the bagpipes, the banjo, and fishing at his lake house with family and friends, including Herb and Nancy Hudnut. A loyal Princetonian, he requested that "Old Nassau" be sung at his memorial service.

Bill leaves his wife of 40 years, Cissie Qualls McLeod; daughters Sara Judson, Martha Livanec, and Ruth Rohs; brother James; and two granddaughters. They have our deep sympathy.

The Class of 1953