William “Len” Suggs
Len was born in Gastonia, NC, son of late William Hugh and Ruth Beam Suggs, long time proprietors of Suggs Dairy Farm, where many of Len’s life lessons and fondest memories were made growing up on a farm. Len graduated from Belmont High School and Western Carolina University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in biology. He was employed by AVX Corporation as a quality control manager for many years.
Len had many passions in life. He was a fierce supporter of Clemson football. If it was a Saturday in the fall, you knew exactly where to find him or hear him, loudly cheering them on.
A true lover of nature, Len found great joy in the North Carolina mountains. For many years, he cherished his time at his log cabin alongside his wife, enjoying the peaceful solitude and beauty of the surrounding woods. Either watching the hummingbirds or listening to the rain hit the tin roof as he rocked in his rocking chair, he was truly in his happy place.
Len was a dedicated Certified Master Gardener whose legendary green thumb was matched only by the incredible love and patience he poured into every plant and vegetable he grew, whether in his own garden or guiding others. He found immense joy sharing his years of experience in horticulture and watching God’s creations thrive. Len also had a strong love of listening to bluegrass music.
He will be missed tremendously.
“I am the resurrection and the life: he that Believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live and whoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die”
John 11:25-26
In addition to his parents, he was also proceeded in death by his brother, Dick Suggs, son-in-law David Lutz, and his beloved Yorkies, Pepper and Minnie.
Len is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Emily Dean Suggs, daughter Mandy Lutz Cooke (Lanneau) of Murrells Inlet, SC, son William Kyle Suggs (Corrie) of Pawleys Island, SC, stepsons: Richard Hill (Jodi) of Belmont, NC, Mike Hill of McAdenville, NC, and Chris Hill (Lauren) of Mt Pleasant, SC, brother Dan Suggs (Louisa) of Gastonia, NC, and sister Donna Howell (Larry) of Gastonia, NC. Len had several step grandchildren. Elliott, Sidney, Madison, Cameron and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the PCU floor at Grand Strand Medical Center in Myrtle Beach, SC, for their love and compassion and to the amazing staff at NHC, Murrells Inlet, for the wonderful care, love, and friendship shown to our Dad and us over the last year.
A celebration of life will be held on June 8, 2026, with visitation at 1PM and service at 2 PM at Myers Memorial United Methodist Church, 301 S New Hope Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054.