of Marion, AR

October 23, 1942 - December 1, 2024

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Leslie Scales Scruggs, Jr, who went to be with the Lord on December 1, 2024 at the age of 82. While we mourn this loss, we celebrate his life and his presence now before his savior. A beloved husband, father and grandfather, Les leaves behind his wife, Diane Brunetti Scruggs of Marion; his daughter, Laurel Ditto (John) of Nashville; his son, Jonathan Scruggs (Neel) of Scottsdale, Arizona and his six grandchildren, Jack Ditto, Andrew Ditto, Abby Ditto, Henry Scruggs, Jane Scruggs and Anne Scruggs. Les was born in Greenwood, Mississippi and was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie Scales Scruggs, Sr. and Cornelia Morgan.

Les was a consummate scholar, gentleman, apologist and jokester. He earned his undergraduate degree, top of his class, from the University of Memphis; an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. He was president of Lambda Chi Alpha and an ace ping-pong player. He went on to teach finance and economics at the University of Memphis for forty years.

He humbly served his wife for 55 years, never ceasing to put her interests above his own and he loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren, modeling what it means to be a gentle and caring father. He taught Sunday School to adults and youth, sang in the church choir, loved Christian hymns and is currently a member of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis. While he frequently read apologetics books and looked to spread the good news, he was always prepared to offer a joke on every occasion, loving to bring joy and laughter wherever he went.

Funeral services for Les will be Saturday, December 7th at 11:00 a.m. at Roller Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis; visitation will be held one hour prior; burial at Crittenden Memorial Park will follow service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alliance Defending Freedom (adflegal.org).

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com