On Oct. 16, a dedicated group of volunteers, led by Master Stone Mason Tom Cullen, gathered to enhance the stone memorial honoring the life and legacy of Leslee McCarty. The memorial, which is installed at the Caldwell Boat Launch, stands as a lasting tribute to Leslee’s years of selfless service to the Greenbrier Valley, the Greenbrier River, and the Greenbrier River Trail. In addition to Tom, we thank volunteers Nancy Harris, Chris Chanlett, Lorrie Sprague, Harry Ernst, John Walkup, Evan Adamson, and Hannah Rivoire.
Under Tom Cullen’s skilled leadership, the volunteers worked together to strengthen and beautify the memorial, ensuring it remains a fitting tribute to Leslee’s impact. The improvements not only honor her memory but also serve as a symbol of the community’s gratitude and enduring commitment to the values she embodied. Through this work, Leslee’s legacy continues to flow – like the river she loved- bringing life, connection, and inspiration to all who visit.
For 20 years, Leslee operated The Current, a beloved Bed and Breakfast near the Greenbrier River Trail in Beard, WV. Her deep compassion extended beyond her guests to the many animals she fostered in cooperation with local shelters. Her love for the river and trail inspired the founding of the Greenbrier River Watershed Association, one of numerous environmental causes to which she devoted her time and energy. As a lobbyist for the West Virginia Environmental Council and an active member of several environmental organizations, Leslee championed the protection of waterways and wilderness. Her tireless advocacy, generosity, and devotion to community have left an enduring mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.
This project is a shared endeavor by the Greenbrier River Trail Association and the Greenbrier River Watershed Association. Both organizations provide critical work; one to the maintenance and care of the Greenbrier River Trail and the other to preserving and restoring the Greenbrier River and its watershed. Our gratitude also goes to RBS Inc. for their generosity in providing materials and for being such a pleasure to work with – their support helped make this project both possible and memorable.
The enhanced memorial is a place for reflection, remembrance, and inspiration – a space that invites visitors to learn about Leslee’s many contributions and to continue caring for the Greenbrier Valley’s natural and human resources.
