Ed McMahon’s real Las Vegas legacy

The passing of Ed McMahon reminds me of his generosity and concern for St. Jude's Ranch for Children. He gave much time and money to the Boulder City facility in the early stages. Locals will likely remember his big involvement in the annual Night of Stars fundraiser on the Strip that gave St. Jude's its initial financial start.

A building on the St. Jude's campus is still named in honor of McMahon. And a memorial to McMahon's son can still be found on the campus. Long-time staffers at St. Jude's remember McMahon visiting the memorial to his son often. Despite his celebrity and position of honor at St. Jude's, he'd arrive at the ranch unannounced and spend hours at the memorial.

For all that Ed McMahon will be remembered for, St. Jude's will not get top billing ... but nothing will be more important than his work at this facility, which continues today in its good work for abused and neglected children.