Family, friends, collogues all gathered to honor Leon Downey and his 38 years of service to tourism in Pigeon Forge.
(PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.) SMOKIES.LIVE – In a full ball room at Dollywood’s HeartSong, state tourism leaders, politicians, family and the Pigeon Forge community gathered to honor a life of service to tourism by Leon Downey.
He started as the Pigeon Forge Tourism Director when the thought of tourism as a way to make a living was just an idea. In a town of roughly 6,300 people, the town generates a $2.3B economy filled with places to eat, places to sleep and places to entertain the family.
WATCH DOWNEY’S LAST INTERVIEW AT DIRECTOR OF TOURISM
Downey, has been the leader of developing that industry and welcoming hundreds of new businesses to town from Titanic to the Ripken Experience, to the expansion of Dollywood’s Resorts and so many more.
“After 38 years leading Pigeon Forge Tourism, Leon Downey is retiring. Leon is a notable tourism professional and is highly respected across the southeast,” said David Wear, City Manager for Pigeon Forge.
Before becoming city manager, Wear also worked with Downey as the city’s mayor.
“His vision and dedication turned our city into a top vacation destination, welcoming millions and strengthening our economy. We’re grateful for his legacy and wish him the best in retirement,” Wear added.
“It’s exciting to think about where Pigeon Forge has been and where it is today,” said Downey when reflecting back on his career. “I get a lot of credit being in the director’s seat, but it’s really the City of Pigeon Forge back in the early 80s that decided they wanted to focus on tourism.”
Downey’s last day in office was May 8. He said his wife wants to now travel, go some of the places that have been on the bucket lists for years. Downey said he plans to stay active in the community at Rotary.
Downey is a veteran of the United States Army, having served four years on active duty.
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