Leon Alexander Mcbryde

Leon Alexander McBryde, 80, of Buchanan, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Leon was a man of many talents who enjoyed pursuing a variety of careers. He was a Green Beret in the Army, ran a Putt Putt golf course, and then attended Ringling Brothers Clown College. He then had the time of his life clowning with the circus and was soon promoted to advance clown tasked with representing the circus prior to its arrival at each stop. Upon leaving the circus, he free-lanced clown shows, produced shows for various clients including McDonalds Corp. He started a business manufacturing clown supplies - primarily clown noses but also makeup and clown shoes. The ProKnows® division of his parent company, the Fantasy Factory, Ltd remains a global leader in the production of clown noses today. Leon’s beloved clown character, Buttons, was inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame in 1990. Leon created a training program for clowns and other entertainers called Advanced Studies in the Performance Art of Clowning which ran for several years and trained hundreds of performers. His last venture, which he greatly loved, was his transformation into the legend, Santa Claus. He was honored to portray the jolly elf and perform for children of all ages as well as teach other Santas the art of performing. Leon’s character, Santa Noel, was inducted into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame in 2017. Leon loved people and loved performing - he kept everyone laughing to the very end. Leon was preceded in death by his son, Casey. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Linda McBryde; sister Mary Lynn Fraser (Keith); son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Tricia McBryde; daughter-in-law, Wendy McBryde; grandchildren, Sean, Emily, Ty, Zip, Brandon, Leah and Lily. A Celebration of Life for Leon aka Buttons aka Santa Noel but best of all Friend, will be held 2pm Saturday, July 20, 2024 at Fincastle Baptist Church. Those wishing to honor Leon's life, please consider Chagy’s ministry, Zelle Hope Through Laughter Chagy@chagy.com Or donations can be mailed to (checks only)

Hope Through Laughter 8051 Raleigh Court Fort Worth TX 76123 Hope Through Laughter (chagy.com) is a nonprofit organization.

Donations are tax deductible under the IRS code 501(c)3. Is an affiliate of The Fellowship Network www.hopethroughlaughter.com

Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com or 540-254-3000.