CENTRAL CAROLINA BRIDGE ASSOCIATION
ACBL District 7 Unit 169
Memorials
We honor and remember cherished members of Unit 169 whose lasting impact on our bridge community continues to be felt. We celebrate their lives, cherish their memories, and are grateful for the many ways they enriched our bridge family.
Remembering: Cathy McLeod
The growth of online bridge in the 1990s opened new opportunities for players to connect across long distances. During that time, frequent business travel led me to explore the online bridge world. One evening, I joined a table hosted by someone using the moniker “CathyMc.” Over time we developed a friendly partnership, and eventually we were able to meet and play face-to-face in Greensboro when my travels brought me to the area. It did not take long to realize that Cathy McLeod was a formidable competitor with a deep curiosity about the game. A lifelong teacher, Cathy approached bridge with the same dedication she brought to the classroom. She studied constantly, reading and learning everything she could to improve her game. That passion, combined with her natural ability to teach, soon made her a central figure in the Greensboro bridge community. Recognizing the need to help new players feel welcome in tournament bridge, Cathy founded the Queen of Hearts Bridge Club, focusing on novice and intermediate players. The success of the club reflected Cathy herself—carefully prepared pre-game lessons, a welcoming atmosphere, and a genuine commitment to the people she taught. Her classes were thoughtful and practical, often illustrated by hands from recent games. On more than one occasion, she would use one of our less-than-stellar results as a teaching example of what happens when the principles from her lessons are ignored. Cathy’s presence at the bridge table was unmistakable. Her effervescent personality, brightly colored dresses, and frequently funky necklaces created a lively and fun environment where players felt comfortable learning. At tournaments she was always generous with her time, wandering through the playing area to encourage and congratulate her students as they gained confidence and experience. Cathy’s love of teaching extended far beyond the bridge table. Born in Stratford, Ontario, she later moved to Windsor, where she met her husband, Bill, and raised their three sons before the family eventually settled in North Carolina. Throughout her life she remained devoted to teaching—first in the classroom, then at home with her children and grandchildren, and later through the game of bridge. Her dedication to bridge was evident in her accomplishments. Through years of study, play, and teaching, Cathy achieved the rank of Emerald Life Master, an impressive milestone that reflected both her skill and perseverance. Cathy McLeod left an enduring mark on the Greensboro bridge community. She introduced countless players to the game, mentored them as they improved, and created a welcoming place where new players could learn and grow. Most of all, Cathy brought joy—to the classroom, to the bridge table, and to the many friends whose lives she touched along the way. She is deeply missed, and the lessons she shared and the enthusiasm she brought to the game continue through the players she inspired.
Remembering: Warren Kasper
The Winston-Salem bridge community lost a valued friend with the passing of Warren Kasper in 2024. Those who knew Warren remember a thoughtful player, a warm personality, and someone who truly loved the camaraderie that makes bridge such a special game. Warren was a North Carolina native, born in Roanoke Rapids. He graduated from North Carolina State University and later earned his law degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. After clerking for the North Carolina Supreme Court, he established a law practice in Clemmons in 1980 and served the community for more than forty years. Many of his clients became lifelong friends—something that speaks volumes about Warren’s character. But for many of us, Warren was best known as a fellow bridge player and tournament companion. While he enjoyed club games, Warren was truly at his happiest when he packed his bags and headed off to a tournament. In particular, the trips to Gatlinburg became something of a tradition. Warren loved the competition, the late-night post-mortems, and the laughter that came with traveling to play bridge with friends. In fact, when Warren announced that he was going to Gatlinburg, everyone hoped to be his partner—or at least have him on their team. Not only was he a solid player, but Warren brought something even more valuable to the table: he was simply a lot of fun to play with. Win or lose, Warren’s good humor, easygoing nature, and enthusiasm made every session more enjoyable. At the bridge table and in life, Warren reminded us that the game is about more than cards and conventions—it’s about friendship, laughter, and the joy of spending time together. His seat may now be empty, but the memories of those Gatlinburg tournaments and the many games shared with friends will continue to bring smiles for years to come. Warren Kasper will be deeply missed by the Winston-Salem bridge community. But every time we gather around a table with good partners and good friends, a little part of Warren’s spirit will still be there with us.
Remembering: Marjorie Van Horn
The Greensboro bridge community lost a valued friend with the passing of Marjorie Lucille Gordon Van Horn, who died in 2024. Born onAugust 22, 1938, in Norfolk, Virginia, Marjorie lived a life rich with family, friendships, and the many communities she touched along the way. Those who knew Marjorie through bridge will remember not only her skill at the table but also her warmth, wit, and welcoming spirit. Bridge is a game that brings people together, and Marjorie embraced that fully. She loved the camaraderie of the game and the friendships that grew from countless sessions spent around the table discussing hands, celebrating good results, and occasionally laughing about the ones that got away. For Marjorie, the fun rarely ended when the last board was played. Many of her friends remember that the best part of the day often came afterward, when a small group would gather to relax and unwind. Marjorie especially enjoyed a prosecco after the game, when the conversation would start with animated discussions about the hands just played—and inevitably drift into wonderful stories, laughter, and the kind of good-natured gossip that only close friends can share. Marjorie’s life was defined by devotion to those she loved. She was deeply cherished by her family and friends, and her kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. In the bridge world, a player’s legacy is not measured only in masterpoints or victories, but in the friendships built and the encouragement offered to others. Marjorie represented the very best of that spirit. She was the kind of player who made the game enjoyable for everyone around her—competitive at the table, gracious in victory or defeat, and always ready with a smile or a story. As we remember Marjorie Van Horn, we celebrate a life well lived and a friend who helped make our bridge community stronger, warmer, and more fun. She will be missed at the table—and certainly missed at those post-game gatherings—but her memory will live on in the friendships she helped create. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to Marjorie’sfamily and loved ones. May her memory be a blessing.
Remembering: Marcy Maury
The Greensboro bridge community lost a cherished friend with the passing of Marcia “Marcy” Maury on January 6, 2023. Marcy was 70 years old and passed away suddenly after suffering a cerebral aneurysm. For many years, Marcy was a familiar and welcome presence at the bridge table. She loved the intellectual challenge of the game and the friendships that came with it. Through her dedication to the game, she earned the rank of ACBL Life Master, a milestone that reflected both her skill and her enthusiasm for bridge. Marcy’s life extended far beyond the bridge table. Born in Wilmington, Delaware, she came to Greensboro to attend Guilford College, later earning a graduate degree from UNC-Greensboro and making the city her lifelong home. She spent much of her professional life working in administrative roles in health and community organizations, and she devoted countless hours to serving others. One of Marcy’s most meaningful contributions was her work as an interpreter for the deaf, where she helped connect members of Greensboro’s deaf community with the wider world. She was also deeply involved with New Garden Friends Meeting, teaching First-Day School for more than twenty-five years and actively supporting her Quaker community. Marcy was also an accomplished artist, sculptor, and potter, and she traveled widely, always bringing back stories, laughter, and enthusiasm for the next adventure. But perhaps most important to her were her family, her faith, her friends, and the many communities she served—including the bridge community that valued her companionship and spirit. Those who played bridge with Marcy will remember her warmth, her thoughtful approach to the game, and the lively conversations that followed a well-played hand. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and generosity that will long be remembered at our tables. The Greensboro bridge community was fortunate to have known her.
Remembering: Ed Turner
There are some people in the bridge community who simply make everything better—quietly, steadily, and without ever asking for recognition. Ed Turner was one of those people. Edward Lawrence Turner of Winston-Salem passed away on April 19, 2023, at the age of 77. A lifelong resident of the area, Ed graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School and went on to attend High Point College. He spent his career in the vending and food service industry, but in retirement he found his true passion—bridge. He became an avid and accomplished player, achieving the rank of Ruby Life Master, a testament to both his skill and dedication to the game. But titles and accomplishments only tell a small part of Ed’s story. To those of us who knew him, Ed was something much more memorable—a gentle man in every sense of the word. With his warm presence and kind demeanor, he had the look and feel of a big teddy bear, someone you were always happy to see walk into the room. He never sought the spotlight, yet he was at the center of so much that made our bridge community special. For more than 20 years, Ed was one of the people you could count on when the real work needed to be done. Setting up for sectionals is not glamorous—moving tables, hauling chairs, organizing supplies—but Ed was always there, quietly pitching in, making sure everything was ready so others could enjoy the game. He understood that great tournaments don’t just happen—they are built by people willing to do the heavy lifting. At the table, Ed was just as generous. He had a natural instinct for helping newer players feel welcome and supported. Whether it was offering encouragement, explaining a hand, or simply sharing a smile after a tough board, Ed made bridge better for those around him. One of his great joys was traveling to Gatlinburg with Kathie Dwyer and others, helping newer players take their first steps into tournament bridge and earn those elusive gold points. Those trips were about more than competition—they were about camaraderie, mentorship, and passing along a love of the game. Ed embraced that role wholeheartedly. Outside of bridge, Ed was known as a devoted family man and a passionate supporter of Wake Forest athletics, especially basketball. But in our community, we will remember him most for the way he treated people—with kindness, patience, and quiet generosity. Ed Turner leaves behind more than masterpoints and memories of good hands. He leaves behind a legacy of service, friendship, and the simple but powerful habit of showing up—whether to play, to help, or just to make someone else’s day a little better. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit lives on in every table set, every new player encouraged, and every act of kindness at the bridge table.
A Living Legion: Suzanne Rhodes
In this issue of the newsletter, we are recognizing several members of our bridge community whose contributions have meant so much to our game. As Suzanne Rhodes quickly pointed out when she saw the list... many of them are no longer with us. Which made Suzanne a little uncomfortable. You see, Suzanne is very much alive. In fact, when Suzanne learned that her name was going to appear among a group largely composed of dearly departed bridge friends, she immediately offered what may be the most unique donation in bridge history — she offered to contribute more money if we would kindly remove her name from the list. Nice try, Suzanne. The truth is that Suzanne’s husband, Bob Rhodes, made a very generous contribution to the Central Carolina Regional in honor of Suzanne. Bob simply wanted to recognize someone who has quietly done so much for bridge in the Triad. And while Suzanne would probably prefer to remain behind the scenes, we felt Bob’s sweet gesture was just too good to pass up. So, Suzanne, we’re afraid you’re stuck with the recognition. Anyone who has spent time at the bridge tables in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, or High Point knows Suzanne. She is one of those rare people who seems to appear exactly where she is needed. Need someone to mentor a newer player? Suzanne is there. Need someone to help with the unglamorous jobs like setting up tables before a tournament or staying late for tear-down? Suzanne is already rolling up her sleeves. She has been a frequent mentor to developing players, generously sharing her knowledge and encouragement. At the table she brings something that is often in short supply in competitive bridge: calmness. Suzanne is always positive, steady, and gracious — a calming presence whether the contract makes, goes down one, or goes down four. Her modesty makes all of this recognition a little uncomfortable for her. But the truth is that communities like ours thrive because of people exactly like Suzanne — people who quietly give their time, their energy, and their kindness to make the game better for everyone. And we should also recognize Bob Rhodes, whose generous support of the Central Carolina Regional and whose thoughtful gesture made this moment possible. Bob clearly knows what the rest of us already knew: Suzanne is someone worth honoring. So Suzanne, please accept this recognition in the spirit it was intended. You may not like being singled out, but we are very proud of you — and grateful to both you and Bob for your unwavering support of bridge and of the Central Carolina Regional. And just to be clear for the record: Suzanne Rhodes is alive, well, and hopefully still speaking to the newsletter editor.
Remembering: Benjamin Cone
The Greensboro community lost a remarkable citizen with the passing of Benjamin “Benjie” Cone Jr., who died after a brief illness at age 81. A lifelong Greensboro resident, Benjie lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, service, and a genuine love of people—and, not surprisingly, a passion for cards and games. Born in Greensboro in 1942, Benjie displayed an early brilliance for mathematics and academics. He graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy and then completed his mathematics degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in just three years. After college he served as a young artillery officer in Vietnam before later earning his MBA from Harvard Business School. But those who knew Benjie remember him less for his impressive résumé and more for his warmth, curiosity, and love of life. Friends describe him as outgoing, generous, and always eager for conversation—whether with lifelong companions or someone he had just met. Bridge players may particularly appreciate one detail from his obituary: Benjie loved competitive card games, especially gin and bridge. Like many in our community, he found in the game not only intellectual challenge but also friendship and camaraderie. Away from the card table, Benjie’s interests ranged widely. He enjoyed skiing with friends and family, golfing, exploring small local restaurants, and following Tar Heel athletics. His curiosity about the world extended beyond recreation into public service and business. As co-owner of the Greensboro metal fabricator C.E. Smith Company, he applied strategic thinking and entrepreneurial energy to business and to the management of the Cone family timberlands in eastern North Carolina. His efforts there had national impact. Working to preserve wildlife habitat, he challenged federal policies affecting the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and helped shape what became the Safe Harbor Agreement for private landowners under the Endangered Species Act. Benjie was also deeply committed to his community. He served as a trustee of the Cone Health system and the Cone Health Foundation, supporting their mission of providing high-quality nonprofit healthcare. At the center of his life, however, was family. He and his wife Betty were married for 57 years after meeting on a blind date while he was at UNC—a story he loved to tell. Their two sons, grandchildren, sisters, and a wide circle of friends formed the heart of his world. Those who sat across from Benjie at a bridge table would likely remember his sharp mind, his sense of humor, and his enjoyment of the contest. But perhaps the greater lesson from his life is the one that resonates most strongly with bridge players: a life well played is about far more than the cards you hold. It is about the people you meet, the friendships you build, and the joy you bring to the table. Benjie Cone will be remembered with affection by family, friends, and the many communities he touched—including those who shared a card table with him.
Remembering: David Finch
The bridge community of the Piedmont Triad lost a valued friend with the passing of David Slane Finch, who died on February25, 2018 at the age of 63. A lifelong resident of Guilford County and the surrounding Triad area, David was known for his warm personality, quick wit, and genuine enjoyment of spending time with friends around the bridge table. For many in the High Point and Greensboro bridge circles, David was a familiar face. He approached the game with enthusiasm and curiosity, always eager to learn, discuss hands, and enjoy the camaraderie that makes bridge such a special community activity. Those who partnered with him remember his steady presence at the table and his ability to keep the game fun, even during the inevitable ups and downs that come with competitive play. Beyond the cards, David valued friendship above all. Like many of us who love the game, he understood that bridge is about far more than masterpoints or results. It is about the people we meet, the partnerships we build, and the conversations that continue long after the boards are put away. Friends recall that David had a generous spirit and an easygoing style that made others feel welcome. Whether playing at the club, attending tournaments, or simply sharing stories with fellow players, he brought warmth and humor to every gathering. The bridge community thrives because of people like David Finch—players who love the game and the friendships that grow from it. His presence will be missed, but the memories of time spent at the table with him will remain. As we shuffle the cards and sit down to play, we remember David and the many moments of fellowship he helped create. May his memory always be a blessing to his friends, family, and fellow bridge players.
Director, Teacher, Ambassador: Cindy Wright
In every bridge community there are a few people who quietly hold everything together. They organize games, welcome new players, answer endless questions, and somehow keep the cards moving and the atmosphere friendly. In Unit 169, that person—very often—is Cindy Wright. Cindy is one of the Triad’s most remarkable bridge directors and club owners. Week after week she runs three duplicate games, while also teaching both intermediate players and brand-new students who are just discovering the game. If you want to know who has brought the most new players into bridge in our area, the answer is easy: Cindy Wright. For years Cindy has been one of Unit 169’s most successful recruiters of new players. She launched a novice game in Winston-Salem and has provided frequent supervised play sessions to help beginners gain confidence and experience. Anyone who has watched a new player sit down at one of Cindy’s tables knows the result—before long they’re smiling, learning, and coming back for more. Her players clearly appreciate what she does. In fact, they recently purchased a sponsorship in Cindy’s honor, a fitting tribute from the people who see firsthand the care and energy she pours into the bridge community. Cindy’s talents have also taken her far beyond North Carolina. She has become a highly sought-after bridge cruise director, traveling the world teaching and directing bridge on ships across the globe. While we miss her when she’s away, we like to think she’s spreading a little bit of the Triad bridge spirit wherever she sails. Many players also remember Cindy’s historic achievement in 2020, when she organized and ran one of the first Non-Life Master Regionals in the country. The event was a tremendous success, setting attendance records and drawing players from all over the district. The turnout was so strong that organizers were briefly concerned they might run out of tables—a wonderful problem for any tournament director to have. Cindy has also served our community with distinction as Unit 169’s goodwill ambassador, and she received the special honor of being selected to serve on the District Goodwill Committee, a recognition reserved for players who exemplify the spirit of bridge: friendliness, generosity, and service to others. And of course, there is another reason Cindy’s games are so popular... the food. Anyone who has played at Cindy’s club knows that the bridge is excellent—but the home-cooked food might be just as legendary. Fresh, delicious dishes appear regularly at her games, leading some players to quietly wonder whether they came for the bridge... or the menu. Her culinary reputation reached near-mythical status during the Winston-Salem Summer Sectional, which Cindy ran successfully for more than twenty years. The event was known for its great bridge, strong attendance, and one unforgettable tradition: Cindy’s homemade cinnamon bread. It was so popular that Cindy had to carefully ration the slices, because once the bread appeared, it vanished in minutes. And who could forget the free Saturday hot-dog lunch, another beloved tradition that made the tournament feel more like a family gathering than a competition. Beyond the directing, teaching, cooking, organizing, and traveling, Cindy has also given countless hours of service as a long-time member of the Unit 169 board, helping guide and strengthen our local bridge community. Which naturally raises the question: How can one person do so much? The answer is simple: Cindy Wright. Her energy, generosity, and love for the game have enriched the lives of hundreds of players across our region. Whether she’s teaching a new student, directing a tournament, serving on a committee, organizing a game, or handing out a slice of cinnamon bread, Cindy embodies the very best of what makes bridge communities special. We are lucky to have her - and very proud to honor her.
Remembering: Don Gardner
The bridge community was saddened to learn of the passing of Don Gardner of Winston-Salem, who died on March 2, 2025, at the age of 92. Don was born on February 27, 1933, in Peoria, Illinois, to Russell and Ruth Gardner. He pursued his education at Purdue University, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Don went on to build a successful professional career as a statistician with General Foods Corporation in Tarrytown, New York, where he worked for 30 years. Later, after moving to North Carolina, he spent another 15 years with Ferguson Plumbing Supply, helping modernize their operations through computerization. Earlier in life, Don also served his country as a navigator in the United States Air Force—an experience that reflected the discipline and precision that later suited him so well at the bridge table. Those who knew Don through bridge will remember his thoughtful approach to the game and his quiet, steady presence at the table. Don was especially generous with his time and knowledge. He served as a mentor to many newer players and was always willing to help others improve their game. It was common for Don to gather players for a short mini-lesson before a club game, sharing tips on bidding, play of the hand, or defense. Many players credit those informal lessons with helping them grow in confidence and skill. Like many dedicated bridge players, Don appreciated not only the intellectual challenge of the game but also the friendships that develop around it. Players from across the Triad will remember him as a capable competitor, a patient teacher, and a valued member of the local bridge community. His enthusiasm for the game and his willingness to help others learn made a lasting impression on many players who had the good fortune to sit at his table.
In Memory of Ray Murphy
The Triad bridge community fondly remembers Ray Murphy of Winston-Salem, who passed away in 2018. Ray was a familiar face at bridge tables across the region and a valued member of the local bridge community for many years. Ray loved the challenge and beauty of the game. Like so many devoted bridge players, he appreciated the endless variety that each deal brought—the quiet satisfaction of a well-timed finesse, the teamwork between partners, and the lively discussion that followed a particularly interesting hand. Bridge was more than a pastime for Ray; it was a community of friends. At the local club, Ray had a regular seat at the bridge table—Table 1 North-South. If there was a game, chances were Ray would be there, ready to play. His steady presence became part of the rhythm of the club, and fellow players could always count on seeing Ray settling in for another afternoon of bridge. Very often sitting across the table from him was his favorite partner, Cindy Wright. Together they formed a very competitive pair. Like many long-time bridge partners, they sometimes had spirited discussions about the “right” bid or the best line of play. But those moments only reflected how much they cared about the game and about doing well as a team. Through it all, Ray and Cindy remained devoted partners and friends at the table. Those who played with Ray will remember not only his dedication to bridge, but also the camaraderie he helped create. After the cards were put away, conversations often continued—replaying the hands, debating the bidding, and sharing stories that sometimes wandered far beyond bridge. His seat at Table 1 North-South may now be empty, but Ray’s presence and spirit remain part of the many stories and hands that continue to be shared in our bridge clubs.