A tragic fall in 1899 inspired Dr. F. H. McLeod’s vision for the Florence Infirmary, which would eventually grow into the regional healthcare system known as McLeod Health. The untimely loss of a young boy, Rufus Barringer, forever tied one of Florence’s early families, the Barringers, to the mission-based medical system which serves patients across our region today.

Frank “Buzz” M. Rogers, IV, a descendant of Rufus Barringer, and his wife, Rae, have made a legacy commitment that will perpetuate the history and connection between his family and McLeod Health.

This generous couple made their legacy decision after a chance conversation between Buzz and Francis Ervin, great-grandson of Dr. F. H. McLeod. Buzz and Francis were completing their year in the McLeod Fellows Class of 2015 when the connection was made. Buzz had been raised hearing about the family tragedy and the loss of his grandmother’s youngest brother, Rufus. Francis was able to share with him how this sad event had inspired his great-grandfather in his life’s work and the establishment of the medical center.

The Rufus Barringer Memorial Fund will be endowed as part of a bequest from their will. Buzz and Rae are keenly interested in supporting the mission of McLeod Health and continuing the excellent care that was inspired by their family’s tragedy.

“We thought this would be a fitting memorial to my maternal grandmother Marie and her brother, Rufus,” states Buzz.

Like the Rogers family, you, too, can help improve the overall health and well-being of people living within South Carolina and eastern North Carolina for many years to come. When you make an endowed gift or include the McLeod Health Foundation in your will, trust or estate plan, you are eligible for membership into the Dr. F. H. McLeod Legacy Society. Learn more about the benefits of being a member at mcleodhealthlegacy.org or contact Casey Rasmussen at (843) 777-2898 or casey.rasmussen@mcleodhealth.org.