Brian MacLeod

Brian D. MacLeod was born in the small town of Cleveland, Richmond County, Cape Breton. He went on to graduate from Mount Allison University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in philosophy and psychology. After graduation, he served as Band Administrator of the Whycocomagh Band for three years and was later made an Honorary Chief for his service.

After leaving his role as Band Administrator, Brian founded MacLeod Group Incorporated in 1984. It is now one of the largest owners of nursing homes in Atlantic Canada. MacLeod Group owns and operates 14 homes located in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, employing more than 1,200 people and caring for 850 seniors.

In addition to being President of MacLeod Group Incorporated, Mr. MacLeod shared his experience with several community organizations, including:

• Chairman of the St. James United Church Board as well as the Capital Campaign Fundraising Committee which led to the very successful renovation of St. James United Church.
• Member of the Board of Directors for the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society, providing affordable housing to those living on low incomes.
• Founder of the Festival Antigonish Foundation in support of live professional theatre arts in the community.
• Member of the Board of Regents, Academic Affairs Committee, Executive Committee, Property & Facilities, and Audit Committees at Mount Allison University.
• Member of the Board of Governors of Nova Scotia Community College and contributed a major gift to establish Mawio’mi place, a presentation and cultural space for Mi’kmaq students at the NSCC Campus in Port Hawkesbury.

Brian was an incredible community supporter and volunteered his time and expertise to support St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation, Antigonish Highland Society, and St. Francis Xavier University. During the 2012 St. F.X. Homecoming ceremony Brian was honoured with a “Friend of St. F.X.” award for his dedication to St. F.X. University and the community. In 2023, Brain was awarded the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for Nova Scotia, an award that recognizes individuals who significantly impact their community, reflect a strong community spirit, volunteerism and service to others.

Brian passed away on December 24, 2023, in St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, Antigonish, at the age of 71. Brian was a devoted husband to the late Irene (MacKay) and loving father to William, Brian Douglas (Catherine), Sheumais (Taylor), and Jermal (Myrie). Brother of William “Bill” (Joyce) and Alexander “Sandy” (Marilyn) MacLeod.