Alfie MacLeod, a former Speaker of the Nova Scotia Legislature and long-serving Progressive Conservative MLA known for his love of Cape Breton and unceasing wit, was being remembered Monday as a kind-hearted, dedicated public servant and volunteer who always made time for local causes.

MacLeod died Sunday at the age of 69 following a battle with cancer.

"Probably one of the kindest persons that anyone could ever know," said Keith Bain, himself a former Speaker of the House and Cape Breton MLA.

"He loved his family above all else and this community next."

Bain said MacLeod had been battling cancer for the better part of a year, but still made efforts to support his community, even during treatments.