Leonard Upshaw

Leonard McGaffey Upshaw
October 23, 1927
June 21, 2003


Mac died on June 21, 2003, in Dallas after a long and arduous series of strokes. He was born in Waxahachie, Texas, on October 23, 1927, to Forrest and Ola McGaffey Upshaw. Mac grew up in Waxahachie and spent his teenage years working as a soda jerk at Gilliam-Upshaw Drug Store on the square.

Mac attended Midwestern University in Wichita Falls, majoring in pharmacology and genetics. He was listed in Who's Who of Texas Students, but better at employing his art of magic as a Chinese magician with the traveling college band. Horseback riding was a natural gift for Mac, who taught his favorite niece Charla how to ride.

Later Mac worked for Taylor Publishing Company and was the university yearbook editor for major accounts, including Yale, USNA, West Point, A&M, and S.M.U. In the 1970's he joined West Appraisal Consultants to begin a 33-year career in appraisals and estate sales.

Mac always took pride in being a detailist and record keeper, but after a few Scotches he again worked his old magic and told stories from the drug store days and from his travels in Montgomery, Alabama, England, and Mexico (with his dad). Some stories were true-and were funny; most of them were told at the beach house on Bolivar Peninsula where, when not jogging or surf fishing, he sat at dinner to entertain his guests.

Mac is survived by Conan West, his partner and friend of 34 years; his brother, architect Forrest Upshaw of Waxahachie; his nieces Charla Upshaw Mayo of Dallas and Marolyn Lynch of Austin; nephew Larry Upshaw of Austin, and many friends.

Mac said, "Pain has no memory," but he knew that memory has laughter.

A memorial will be planned at a future date.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Wayne Boze Funeral Home.
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