Camden, AL- With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Leroy Wiggins, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and businessman who departed this life peacefully on March 16, 2025. He was born April 24, 1936. Leroy was a cherished member of several communities, including Youngstown, and had a steadfast presence in the lives of those who knew him.
Leroy was the former owner and operator of Jacob's Tire Shop on Youngstown’s Eastside. His easygoing nature and generous spirit were a blessing to those he served. While it was a tire repair shop and opportunity to purchase tires, it was also a gathering place where folks could relax and appreciate the moments of comradery.
Leroy’s silent philanthropy in the community blessed numerous nonprofit and faith-based organizations. He also provided free services to single mothers and college students, citing that they should use that money towards their other immediate priorities.
On one occasion, he repaired the rubber lined swimming pool belonging to a young family that was slashed by their envious neighbors on a Sunday morning. He only would accept a glass of lemonade as payment, restoring the joy of the once disappointed children.
An unsung hero in the community, he often mentored and encouraged youth and young adults. He had a Wall of Fame within his shop plastered with good news and articles of accomplishments of individuals such as Rev. Lewis Macklin, David Hight and former Mayor Jay Williams. He was proud of the successes and vision of ambitious African American youth.
Leroy retired and relocated to Camden, AL, yet his love for the Youngstown community never faded. He found serenity in chatting it up with others and casting a rod to fish. fishing.
Leroy lived and embraced the words of Etienne de Grellet “I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being; let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”
Leroy is survived by and will always be loved and remembered by his daughter Vanessa Wiggins, grandchildren and great grandchildren, all committed to keeping his legacy vibrant.
As Leroy crossed the celestial sands into eternity, he becomes reunited among the ancestors, which includes his parents, wife Anna Marie Harris-Wiggins, children JoAnn Wiggins, Leroy Wiggins, Jr., Ella Jean Wiggins and Billie Wiggins and grandson, Johnathan C. Wiggins.
As we reflect on his life, we remember Leroy not only for his accomplishments and steadfast work ethic but also for his compassion, kindness, and loyalty to those he loved. His legacy will live on in the hearts of family and friends who were fortunate enough to know him.
There will be a public viewing on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Christian Memorial – Camden campus, 515 Camden Bypass, Camden, AL 36726. You may contact them to forward floral tributes or other expressions at the office (334)682-9842 or fax (334)682-4755.
The Celebration of Life Services for Mr. Leroy Wiggins will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church Camdan on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11:00 am. After the committal ceremony, he will be laid to rest in the St. Wisdom Cemetery.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Leroy Wiggins elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements locally to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.