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Charles "Charlie" M. McLeish, age 92, passed away September 30, 2026, at Marietta Memorial Hospital.
Charlie was born July 23, 1934, in Woodsfield, Ohio, a son of the late James Leroy and Laura E. McDougal McLeish. He was a 1952 graduate of Barnesville High School and a 1955 graduate of the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy. Charlie proudly served 25 years with the Ohio State Highway Patrol before retiring in 1980.
Following his retirement from the Patrol, Charlie served as Bailiff of the Washington County Common Pleas Court from 1980 to 1988, when he was elected Clerk of Courts of the Washington County Common Pleas Court.
Charlie was the founder of, an active partner and auctioneer with McLeish Auction Services, a family-run business that has been part of the community since 1984. His love for the auction business went far beyond his work. He dedicated countless hours to helping others and volunteering throughout the community.
He was a member of the Ohio and West Virginia Auctioneers Associations, Knights of Columbus, Marietta Advertising Club, Moose Lodge and St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where he served as an usher for many years and was a member of the Parish Council.
Throughout his life, Charlie was recognized for his dedication to his community and the people around him. Among his many honors were the 2012 Gabe Zide Citizen of the Year, 2016 West Virginia Auctioneers Hall of Fame, 2017 Washington County Fair Parade Marshal, 2019 Barlow Fair Parade Marshal and 2026 Waterford Fair Parade Marshal, along with many other awards and recognitions.
Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 41 years, Linda L. Moore McLeish, who passed away in October 1994, and his sons, Christopher A. McLeish and Kelly A. McLeish.
He is survived by his wife, Judy L. McLeish; son, Keelan A. McLeish (Joyce); stepsons, Eric Seevers (Keri), Doug Seevers (Yolanda), and Ryan Seevers; and stepdaughter, Melissa Frye (Bret). He is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.
Those who knew Charlie knew his love of life, his love of family, and his passion for the family auction business. He dedicated and volunteered countless hours to his community and was always willing to lend a hand. His love of old cars was a special passion that brought him great joy throughout his life. Charlie also loved to cook on his outdoor smokers and enjoyed bringing people together around good food, good conversation, and good times.
To his family, Charlie was so much more than his accomplishments. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather and friend who gave generously of his time and never hesitated to help someone in need. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his stories, laughter, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed. His family will carry the memories of the time spent together, the lessons he taught them, and the love he gave so freely.
Charlie leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will forever cherish him. His hard work, generosity, sense of community, and love for his family will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 at Hadley Funeral Home Reno Chapel, 1021 Pike St., Marietta, OH., with The Very Rev. Edward Maxfield Jr. officiating. Entombment to follow in the East Lawn Mausoleum. Visitation will be held from 2-4 & 6-8 PM on Monday, October 5th at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in honor of his life and the love he had for animals, Ohio Valley Humane Society, 90 Mt. Tom Rd., Marietta, OH 45750. Online condolences may be made at www.hadleyfh.com.