May Elizabeth LeClair

Born on April 9, 1924, May was a lifelong resident of Oregon who exemplified a life of dedication — both to her family and her community.

May married her beloved, Lloyd on February 6, 1943, in Fort Benning, Georgia. Throughout their life together, she was the devoted pillar who kept the family strong, raising their children while Lloyd served in two wars. She beautifully managed their home — first in Oregon City and later in Jennings Lodge — all while serving as bookkeeper for Lloyd’s TV repair business.

Academically, May graduated from Oregon City High School in 1942 and was a proud member of the National Honor Society.

Her giving nature was evident in every chapter of her life. She poured her time and talents into helping others in countless ways: she sewed blankets and bags for children at Shriners and Doernbecher Children’s Hospitals, was a proud and dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star, serving as Worthy Matron three times, and she loved attending local bazaars with Lloyd, where she sold her beautifully handcrafted hats and scarves.

May took immense pride in their award-winning rose garden, which earned recognition from the Portland Rose Society along with numerous “Best of Show” sweepstakes awards and trophies. Her favorite trophy of all was the American Rose Society’s prestigious Nicholson Perpetual Challenge Bowl, awarded to the entry with the twelve best roses. When asked how they won, she said with a smile, “I just told Lloyd, ‘We got this — just leave it to me, and do not touch the roses.’” She was the master of how to prep and groom show roses.

Her many other talents extended to a wide range of crafts. She found joy in sewing, knitting, reading, and needlework, often creating items to share or sell at community events.

She was also a dedicated member of the Rebekah’s, a branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Oregon City. She lived by their guiding principles: to live peaceably, to do good unto all as opportunity allows, and above all, to follow the Golden Rule — “Whatsoever ye would that others should do unto you, do ye even so unto them.” Her kindness, integrity, and quiet strength reflected those values in all she did.

Above all, May was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose legacy of love and generosity continues through her large and loving family. She is survived by her children, Laverna Jacobs, Janita Mara, Roger LeClair, and Michelle Peterson; as well as more than fifty grandchildren; including great- and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lloyd LeClair; son, Douglas LeClair; parents, Mervin and Lena Califf; and siblings, Charles, Russell, and Lindy Califf.

Her family takes comfort in knowing that May and Lloyd are together once again — tending heaven’s most beautiful rose garden, side by side.

A Cemetery Service will be 1:30 p.m., Monday, November 24, 2025 at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon.