Eugene LeRoy "Roy" Leopold

Eugene “Roy” Leopold, 86, of Isle of Palms, SC passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Born in Charleston, SC, Roy was the son of Eugene and Eugenia Leopold and brother to the late Nancy Leopold Wheaton. He was a proud graduate of Bishop England High School and served four years in the Army National Guard. Roy began his professional life in photography with Channel 2 news before embarking on a successful career in automobile sales where he worked for over 40 years.

He and Catherine were married for 67 years. Together they built a life devoted to family, raising three children: Julie DeStefano (Bill), Lance Leopold (Erin), and Lisa Leopold. He also was a beloved grandfather to Harrison DeStefano (Ashley), Julie DeStefano Hynson (Antoine), Darby DeStefano Mason (Will), Alexa Leopold, Brayden Leopold (Alexa), Cason Leopold, and Colby Ratledge. His legacy continues with five great-grandchildren: Ada DeStefano, Eleanor DeStefano, Asher Hynson, Bella Hynson, and Julian Hynson.

Roy lived life with energy and enthusiasm. He found joy in fishing, hunting, scuba diving, and water skiing. He also spent many hours building and flying model airplanes. But perhaps his greatest passion was coaching the Isle of Palms boxing team known as the “Green Machine” where he volunteered for over 15 years mentoring young athletes and fostering community spirit.

He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his kind heart, fun sense of humor, and his zeal for life. His impact on those who knew him—whether through a handshake at the car lot, a lesson in the boxing ring, or a quiet moment by the water—will be felt for generations.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 20th from 5:00-7:00 PM at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, August 21 at 10:00 AM at Stella Maris Catholic Church, 1204 Middle Street, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482. Following the funeral service will be the graveside burial at Mount Pleasant Memorial Gardens, 1308 Mathis Ferry Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464.

Flowers to the family will be appreciated or financial donations can be made to Stella Maris Catholic Church in honor of Roy.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation - Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, 843-884-3833.