Ernest Michael McLeod, age 62 of Sanford, died Monday (3/29/2021) at Central Harnett Hospital in Lillington.  He was born in Lee County, son of the late Ernest McLeod and Beatrice McLeod Hicks.  He was preceded in death by his parents.  Graveside funeral services will be held on Thursday at 2pm at Lee Memory Gardens with Pastor James Derick Howard officiating. Surviving are his sisters, Diane Daniel of Warrenton, NC, Ruth Misklow and husband Phil of Fountain Inn, SC, and Sarah Batts and husband Josh of Sanford, NC.  Brothers, Dewey McLeod of Sanford, NC, Terry Eddie Hicks of Sanford, NC and Frank Allen Hicks of Sanford, NC and step-father, Ed Hicks of Sanford, NC.  Friends may visit the Smith Funeral Home on Thursday between the hours of 12:00-1:30pm to sign the register and pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.  Due to Covid-19 mask are requested for the services.   Online condolences can be made at www.smithfuneralhomebroadway.com Arrangements are by the Smith Funeral Home of Broadway.