Dr. Edward Reynolds MacLennan was born September 3, 1910, in Atlanta, Georgia. His father, Alexander Dowling MacLennan, graduated from Auburn University and played on the first football team that Auburn fielded. His mother, Angela Herbin MacLenna, received her education at the Sacred Heart Convent at Metagan, Nova Scotia. She was the daughter of French General John Fredrick Herbin, a member of the French Legion of Honor, who was exiled to Nova Scotia by Napoleon VI.
Dr. Mac received his primary and secondary education in Decatur, Georgia. He graduated from Emory University School of Medicine in 1935 and served his internship in Seattle, Washington. He began his medical practice in Opp in July 1936. February 15, 1940, Ed MacLennan married Helen O’Neal of Andalusia, and two daughters were born to this union, Kay MacLennan Kross and Margaret Mac- Lennan Hunt. When World War II broke out in 1941, Dr. Mac joined the Army, serving for five years, being discharged in 1946 with the rank of Lt. Colonel.
Upon discharge from the Army, Dr. Mac returned to Opp to resume his medical practice. He was actively involved in the founding of Mizell Memorial Hospital and in 1949 became a charter member of that Medical Staff. In the years that followed, Dr. Mac was a force in continuing medical and health related education and was recognized for achievements in that area with special awards by the American Medical Association and the Medical Association of Alabama. He was involved in and made significant contributions to numerous health related organizations and medical associations, including the local, state and national medical societies and the Rodger’s Heart Foundation. Throughout his career, Dr. MacLennan has had an avid interest in Opp and its citizens. His interest in sports was demonstrated by his faithful attention to the athletes of this community. Dr. Mac was the first team physician for the Opp High Football team, serving on a voluntary basis from 1937 until his retirement in 1983.
For that service he was presented with an award from the Opp Quarterback Club and the 1982-83 OHS Football team. The award consisted of a plaque expressing appreciation for his dedicated attention over the years. The second part of the award was two permanent reserved seats for Dr. and Mrs. MacLennan. The spirit behind this award was best demonstrated by the standing ovation from all those in attendance as the award was presented at the Football Banquet, January 26, 1983. He was a dedicated community citizen in other pursuits too. He was among the founders of the Opp Country Club, maintaining membership since 1936, member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, member of the Chamber of Commerce and a member of the First United Methodist Church. He had a special interest in scouting and especially Girl Scouts. He purchased a small house and had it moved to city property and renovated it for use in Girl Scout Troop meetings. He was active in the chartering of Citizens National Bank and has served as a director since its founding in 1965.
Dr. Mac’s real contribution to the community and the real worth of the man lies in the spirit and willingness that has allowed him to treat the patient, give them excellent counsel and loving care across a span of 47 years. Such a span of years required a willingness to change with the times, constantly reviewing his knowledge in the ever-advancing field of medicine. The number of people from this area who have been touched by Dr. Mac is truly amazing. Such a man deserves recognition. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983.
