Leatrice B. McKissack

Leatrice Buchanan McKissack, visionary leader, educator, business executive, philanthropist, and devoted matriarch, passed away after a life defined by excellence, courage, and unwavering commitment to family and community. Born on July 27, 1930, in Keytesville, Missouri, to Catherine Brummell Buchanan and Archie Buchanan, Leatrice's life was shaped by resilience from an early age. After the loss of her father, she was raised by her mother and stepfather, the distinguished historian, Dr. Alrutheus A. Taylor, an assistant to Dr. Carter G. Woodson and later Dean at Fisk University.

Leatrice attended Marceline Colored School in Missouri before moving to Nashville, Tennessee, where she graduated as salutatorian from Pearl High School in 1948. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Fisk University in 1951, studying among some of the nation's greatest African American scholars and artists, including Langston Hughes, Aaron Douglas, Arna Bontemps, and Dr. Charles S. Johnson. She later received a Master of Science degree in Psychology from Tennessee State University in 1957.

In 1949, she married William DeBerry McKissack, whose family founded the historic McKissack & McKissack architectural firm, one of the oldest African American-owned architecture and engineering firms in the United States. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Leatrice began her career as an educator, teaching in Nashville's public schools for seventeen years before health challenges led her to leave the classroom. During her recovery, she became increasingly involved in the family business. When her husband suffered a stroke in 1983, Leatrice assumed leadership of McKissack & McKissack and McKissack Contracting Company. Through determination, exceptional business acumen, and steadfast leadership, she transformed the firm into a nationally recognized enterprise. She courageously challenged racial discrimination, expanded the company's presence across the country, and led landmark projects, including the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. She also established the McKissack Development Corporation, dedicated to creating affordable housing and expanding opportunities for underserved communities.

Throughout her distinguished career, Leatrice served on numerous civic and educational boards, including Fisk University, the United Way, Cheekwood Fine Arts Center, the Nashville Symphony, and the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. Her leadership earned countless honors, including being called one of America’s most powerful and successful black businesswomen by Black Enterprise magazine, the National Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award (presented by President Bush) in 1990, and the Presidential Design Award (presented by President Clinton) in 1994. She was an honored and lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and cherished member of Circle-Lets Inc. Her enduring legacy lives on through the continued success of McKissack & McKissack and the generations of leaders she inspired.

While her professional accomplishments were extraordinary, those who knew Leatrice best will remember her for the joy she brought to everyday life. She loved gathering family and friends around her table, preparing meals that often lasted for days of celebration. She had a deep appreciation for art, enjoyed traveling the world, and was delighted with fine food, good company, and beautiful music. Her infectious laughter, captivating storytelling, generous spirit, and unwavering love for her family created memories that will be treasured forever.

Leatrice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William DeBerry McKissack, and her brothers, Harold, John, Donald, and Teddy Buchanan.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Andrea McKissack Krupski (Alan), Cheryl McKissack Daniel (Samuel), and Deryl McKissack; her grandchildren, Shari Franklin Smith (Jeffery), Michelle Franklin, Deryl Felder, Leah Felder, and Ahlyah Albritton; her great-grandsons, Brian Smith (Jasmine) and David Smith; her sisters-in-law, Myllicent, Jean, and Francis; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews (including but not limited to Harold Buchanan, Mit Buchanan, Robyn Charleston (Gomez), Dean Buchanan, Teddy Buchanan, Lisa Buchanan Thomas (Joe), Donald Buchanan (Tita), Eric McKissack (Cheryl), and Mel Dixon (Niara), extended family members, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by her wisdom, generosity, and grace.

Leatrice Buchanan McKissack leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, visionary leadership, service, and love. Her life stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through faith, determination, and an unwavering belief in opening doors for those who follow.