Hebrides News

Tributes have been paid to Donnie 'Leody' Macleod, of Newmarket, Lewis, who has passed away at the age of 95.

Mr Macleod was a well-known figure in traditional music circles, particularly for his fiddle playing and has been a keen supporter of the traditional music scene for many years across the island.

He was an accomplished player of many musical instruments; past generations will remember him as a pipe band drummer and accordionist.

For many years he was a tutor at the annual Lewis based Fèis Eilean an Fhraoich, inspiring many youngsters as they developed their skills on the fiddle.

He also taught at Taigh Dhonnchaidh, the music and arts centre in Ness where news of his death was received with sadness.

“Donnie was a great friend of Taigh Dhonnchaidh and for many years made the journey to Ness to teach our young folk and pass on his exceptional musical skills. Our thoughts are with his widow Mary and the family at this difficult time,” said the organisation.

For over sixty years he held steadfast affection and commitment to the Lewis Pipe Band which he originally joined as a drummer, later becoming the band’s drum major.  

A spokesperson for Lewis Pipe Band said: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the death of our honorary president Donnie ‘Leody’ Macleod.

“He has been a key feature of the Lewis Pipe Band as both a playing member as well as an integral committee member since the 1960s. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Donnie Leody was the first ever councillor for the Laxdale ward, elected in 1974 to the shadow local authority which operated for a year before Comhairle nan Eilean was legally established. He served to 1978.  

Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Kenny Macleod, said: “As an elected member when Comhairle nan Eilean Siar was formed, Donnie leaves behind a legacy to be remembered.

“A committed councillor, as well as a fantastic musician, Donnie was interested and involved in matters within his own ward and the wider community of the Western Isles.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew Donnie, in particular his wife, Mary, and his children.”

Lewis and Harris Accordion and Fiddle Club said they are “saddened” of his death.

Donnie had been a member of the club since its launch.

“Our thoughts go out to his wife Mary and their family,” they added.

Keith Morrison of Face the West said he owed a lot to Donnie for “inspiring us and getting us busy in the fiddle group when we were growing up. A good man.”

Elsie Mitchell So sorry to hear this. Donnie was a sweet, lovely man inspiring generations of children to play trad. music. He has left a wonderful legacy. Condolences and thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

Gina Campbell summed up the loss to the community: “Newmarket and Laxdale have lost a man that was pivotal to the community all his life and in so many ways.”

Donnie is survived by his wife Mary, and their family, Anne, Robert, Murray, as well as an extended family of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Tributes paid to Donnie 'Leody' Macleod

1 December 2024