Leon Wilson Riggins

Born on June 13th, 1937, in Sylacauga, Alabama, Leon (Shorty) was the son of Livingston and Rosie Lee Riggins. Growing up, he was instilled with values of love, unity, and hard work within his close-knit family, shaping the kind-hearted man he became.

Leon’s life was a reflection of his passion for both his community and his interests. As a pioneer, he proudly owned one of the first black-owned barbershops in Portland, Oregon, for nearly 35 years. Through his barbershop, he became a cornerstone of support and friendship to the community he loved so dearly.

Beyond the barbershop, Leon cherished spending time with family and indulging in his favorite hobbies. Fishing with his beloved brother, David, and hunting expeditions with his dear brother, Livingston (June). He shared a special bond over baseball with his son-in-law, Bruce, passionately cheering for the Seattle Mariners, his favorite team.

Alongside his son, Larry, Leon found joy and solace working on his cherished 1983 Chevy Silverado pickup truck, creating enduring memories and a deep father-son bond. Music was also an integral part of Leon’s life, and he delighted in singing with his group, The Spiritual Harmoneers, in days gone by.

A man of simple pleasures, Leon could often be found tending to his small vegetable garden and proudly sharing the harvest with those he loved. However, one of the fondest memories cherished by all was Leon’s famous Banana Pudding, though many have tried, no one has been able to duplicate his delicious banana pudding recipe. BBQs, holidays, and family dinners will never be the same without his warm presence and jovial spirit. His laughter, stories, and genuine interest in others brought a special magic to these occasions, leaving an irreplaceable void that echoes in the hearts of all who knew him.

Leon was known for his kindness, generosity, and humility. He possessed a beautiful soul that shone through in every interaction. He left an indelible mark on all who had the honor of knowing him, demonstrating the true essence of compassion and care.

His love will forever be remembered by his loving children, Larry D. Riggins of Vancouver, WA, Pat Clay of Birmingham, AL, Angela M. (Moses) King of Mesa, AZ, Athena D. (Tony) Hampton of Phoenix, AZ, Sabrina F. (Bruce) Smith of Seattle, WA, Gloria McGhee of Fayetteville, NC, Bonnie Thomas of Sylacauga, AL, and Leondra (Julius) Riggins - Jones of Wilmington, NC; God Daughter, Angie Winston of Portland, OR; one sister, Peggy Patterson of Sylacauga, AL; brothers, Mike (Sheila) Riggins of Vancouver, WA, and David (Amy) Riggins of Portland, OR; grandchildren, Shalonda Miller of Phoenix, AZ, Michael Miller of Portland, OR, Eboni (Jarvis) Lloyd of Baltimore, MD, Jeremy Kelsey of Longview, WA, Jason (Nadine) Kelsey of Justin, TX, Landon Riggins of Vancouver, WA, Julius Jones, Jr., of Wilmington, NC, Jillian McGhee of Fayetteville, NC, Nicolas McGhee of Greensboro, NC, Adrian Hampton, Brian Hampton both of Phoenix, AZ, and Markey Thomas of Sylacauga, AL; twenty four great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren, and a host of family and friends who will forever hold dear the memories they shared with him. May he rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will always remain in our hearts.

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