Raymond Arledge McLees, III, aged 83, passed away on December 15, 2023, at White Oak of Tryon in Tryon, North Carolina. Born in Anderson, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Raymond A. McLees, Jr. and Martha Prince McLees. His legacy includes a profound impact on his community, a successful career, and a deep passion for music and storytelling.
McLees graduated from Wofford College, where he was a member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Following his education, he embarked on a career in the textile industry, working in South Carolina, Charlottesville, Virginia, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Eventually, he settled in Tryon, North Carolina, where he became an Investment Advisor at the A.G. Edwards Tryon Office.
In addition to his professional achievements, McLees was deeply engaged in the Tryon community. He served on the Board of Directors of the Tryon Concert Association, was an active member of the Rotary Club of Tryon, and volunteered with the Pacolet Area Conservancy. His enthusiasm for music was evident as he participated actively in the choir at Central United Methodist Church in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
McLees was known for his storytelling ability and was affectionately remembered as a bon vivant. He leaves behind a family that includes two sons, Raymond A. McLees IV (Jennifer) of Lyons, Colorado, and Lander B. McLees of Denver, Colorado, as well as a daughter, Dr. Margaret McLees (Dr. Patrick Bosque) of Denver, Colorado, and two granddaughters.
Arrangements for McLees’ funeral service are in progress, with plans for the service to take place at a later date at Central United Methodist Church. The family will also hold a gathering for friends in Tryon, North Carolina, prior to the burial at the Old Silverbrook Cemetery in Anderson, South Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be directed to a charity of the donor’s choice. An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com for those wishing to express their condolences. McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon is managing the arrangements.
