Leslie Carlin Duggins

Leslie Carlin Duggins, Senior, 69, was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. While they celebrate his victory in Jesus, the family he leaves behind also mourns the loss of a loving husband, father, and papa.

Leslie was born in Spartanburg, SC, on October 26, 1954, to Mary and Arthur Duggins. Though the family’s travels took them across the country on roads that were not always easy, Leslie was proud to call Drayton home. 

Leslie returned to Spartanburg and soon met and fell in love with his high school sweetheart, Sandra Sarratt, in the 9^th grade at Cowpens High School. Shortly afterwards, he was able to pursue his other great love—photography—when his future mother-in-law gifted him his first camera. From those humble beginnings, Leslie went on to become one of the most celebrated photographers in the area. His career began with taking pictures at high school proms and went on to include working at B&B Studios, Spartan Foods, The Spartanburg Herald-Journal, USC-Upstate and the Carolina Panthers. He previously owned his own studio, and over the past fifty years has photographed nearly every person in Spartanburg. His smiling, quiet presence has been a mainstay at nearly every sporting event, wedding, and christening in town. He particularly enjoyed working with children, but none brought him greater joy than his own six grandchildren. 

In addition to his wife of nearly 50 years, Leslie is survived by his sons, Les Jr. (Cassidy) and Jon Paul (Nicole), and his six precious grandchildren: Finley, Addie, Katherine, James, Margaret, and Charles. He is also survived by his siblings, Karen Hogan, Dianne Robinson, and Michael Duggins. 

Leslie was a proud member of Cowpens First Baptist Church where he served as RA leader, a deacon, and a favorite cook at Wednesday night suppers. He also traveled on several mission trips. 

Les Duggins and his photographs have captured the images of this community for many years, but his kindness and thoughtfulness will live forever in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. 

The family will receive friends at the home of Cassidy and Les Duggins on Friday, April 26, from 4 until 6 PM, and again on Sunday, April 28, at Cowpens First Baptist Church from 2:30-3:45. Funeral services will be held at Cowpens First Baptist on Sunday, April 28, at 4 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Josh Lee Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o USC-Upstate, 800 University Way, Spartanburg, 29303.