One of the most cherished holiday traditions is a visit with Santa Claus. At malls and town squares across the country, thousands of parents wait in line for hours with their children, and their pets, in hopes of capturing a glimpse of Christmas magic. But for the residents of Bedford County, this beloved tradition is looking a little different this year, as they are mourning the loss of their favorite “Santa.”
Bedford native Brooke Leppert passed away unexpectedly in July at the age of 59. Brooke was a kind and compassionate person, who loved his Bedford community. He was known as a reliable friend and neighbor and someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
“Brooke was a large man, both in stature and personality,” said Paula Betts-Redmond, long-time friend of Brooke. “He had a heart, every bit as big as he was, and he never met a stranger.”
Particularly passionate about helping animals and children, Brooke volunteered with many local organizations such as the Bedford County Players, Abby’s Animal Heaven, the Fall Foliage Committee, and the Bedford Fire Department. Brooke was most well-known for being the downtown Bedford Santa Claus for the last 13 years. Additionally, he would play Santa for community events that served animals and children, and he never accepted payment for playing the role.
“You can ask just about anyone in Bedford, and they will tell you, this was just not a role for him—he truly was Santa,” said Paula. “There was magic that surrounded him when he put on that suit, and he embraced the spirit of giving, joy, and love that Christmas should bring to people.”
Since Brooke’s passing, various businesses and individuals have held events to commemorate his impact on the Bedford community. Now, a group of his close friends have started a fund at the Community Foundation to continue his legacy of compassion and service to others. The Secret Santa Society Fund will provide and maintain the spirit of Christmas all year long by spreading joy and love in the community. The fund will be a helping hand for those in need, just as Brooke was.
“We all love our little community and the people in it,” said Paula. “It is important to us, as it was to Brooke, to do what we can to help the community thrive. We are thrilled to be a part of CFA, which has made the process so easy for us, so we are able to focus on our fundraising goals.”
The group’s largest fundraiser will be a live music festival over Labor Day Weekend next year, in honor of Brooke’s love for live music. The two-day event will consist of performances by local musicians and an opportunity to camp for the weekend.
To donate to the Secret Santa Society Fund, click here.
