Mar 7, 2025

Kemp McLeod earns 2025 Mr. Peach award for leadership in peach growing operations 

One of South Carolina’s largest peach growing operations received top recognition on January 11. Kemp McLeod, owner of McLeod Farms in McBee, was named 2025’s Mr. Peach.

The honor was presented during an awards breakfast at the Southeast Regional Fruit & Vegetable Conference in Savannah, Georgia.

Founded in 1916, McLeod Farms produces more than 30 peach varieties across 1,000 orchard acres in South Carolina’s Sandhills. The sandy, loam soils create ideal growing conditions. The diversified farm also produces vegetables, berries, grapes and melons.

Celebrating leadership and legacy

Chris Yonce, president of the South Carolina Peach Council and co-owner of JW Yonce & Sons Farm, praised McLeod for his character and commitment. “Mr. Kemp is an extraordinary individual who is a successful, great family man, farmer, and businessman.”

As a fellow fourth-generation grower, Yonce noted he understands the dedication required in family farming. “Being part of a family farm is not just a livelihood. It’s a way of life from a very young age, and Kemp is a great example of that.”

Yonce added that McLeod represents a generation of growers who believe in perseverance. “It was no excuses. It was, ‘No, we’re going to get it done’,” Yonce said. “We need more of that. We’re all trying to navigate all the difficulties in our industry and everything else.”

McLeod reflects on the honor

McLeod has dedicated his life to building on the legacy of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He described the award as humbling.

“I consider this the highest award for a peach producer. Not only is it an honor for me; it’s an award recognizing the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices of five generations of family members.”

McLeod added, “We’re fortunate to be in the southeast. Georgia and South Carolina are known for quality peaches. We’re in a unique area and fortunate to have these growing conditions.”

Expanding and adapting through change

Over the decades, McLeod has implemented modern practices to strengthen McLeod Farms. Today, he stands as the only large grower left in his immediate region, which once supported 30 peach producers. The operation includes a packinghouse, sales through a leading broker, roadside markets, and an online gift pack business.

McLeod served on the South Carolina Farm Bureau’s fruit and vegetable committee and has earned multiple industry honors. He was also a past president of the South Carolina Peach Council.

Building a family legacy

McLeod Farms continues to thrive with strong family involvement. Kemp McLeod’s son, Spencer, vice president of the South Carolina Peach Council, joined the farm after completing ag mechanization and MBA degrees at Clemson University, his father’s alma mater. Kemp’s wife, Gaie, manages school field trips for the farm, extending its role as an educational resource.

With its century-long legacy and commitment to quality, McLeod Farms stands as a model of successful peach growing operations in the southeast.

—  Doug Ohlemeier, Assistant Editor