Allen Lee Huggins

Allen Lee Huggins, born on March 26, 1945, in Gaston County, NC, passed from this life to his eternal home in Heaven peacefully on February 13, 2026, at Courtland Terrace. He was a cherished figure in the lives of many, known for his warm spirit and dedication to family and friends.

Allen was a proud alumnus of Dallas High School, upon which he answered the call to serve his country in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His journey into civilian life began with his enrollment in barber school and was proud owner of Huggins Barber Shop. He held various roles that showcased his diverse talents and unwavering commitment to serving others, including positions as an EMT for the Dallas Rescue Squad and a correctional officer at the Dallas Correctional Facility. A dedicated member of the community, Allen was also active in local governance, having been elected to serve multiple terms as a town alderman in Dallas. His leadership extended to the Masonic Gaston Lodge 263, where he held the title of past Master, contributing significantly to the lodge's activities and initiatives.

In addition to his professional and civic achievements, Allen took great pride in his role as a husband, father, friend, and pawpaw. He is survived by his loving children: daughter Elizabeth P. Watson (Peter), sons Steven Preast (Brenda), Robert Scott Huggins (Christi), and Jonathan Huggins. Allen was the proud grandfather of 16 grandchildren, including Travis Preast, John H. Clemmer (Maria), William Clemmer, Caroline Clemmer Black (Seth), Zach Preast, Josh Preast, Seth Preast, Jacob St. Laurent (Jamie), Matthew Ritchie, Emily St. Laurent, Bailey, Jonah, Levi, Andrew, Jesse, and Cody Huggins. He also delighted in the company of 13 great-grandchildren, John Henry Clemmer, Jr., Natalie Clemmer, Lucille Black, Amelia Black, Howard Black, Kolson Preast, Audrey Weist, Isabella Weist, Athena Huggins, Brinley Huggins, Anastasia Huggins, Bennett Huggins, Evelyn St.Laurent and Howard Black. Allen further leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and many close friends who were like family.

He enjoyed spending time with loved ones, embracing hobbies such as fishing, golf, and following NASCAR, and was a steadfast sports fan. Allen was also a faithful servant to Jesus, dedicating his time and efforts to the Holy Communion Lutheran Church, where he participated in Via De Cristo.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 38 years, Carolyn Travis Huggins; his daughter, Sarah St. Laurent; his son, Gerald Preast; his brother, Jack Huggins; and his parents, John Roberts and Helen Elizabeth Huggins. Additionally, his grandparents, Henry Huggins and Helen Summey, also preceded him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service from 11:00 AM at Holy Communion Lutheran Church, located at 103 W Church St, Dallas, NC 28034. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Military Honors

The family wishes to thank the nursing staff at Courtland Terrace for the years for their dedicated care and concern and for the VIA Hospice staff. Allen Lee Huggins will be remembered fondly for his infectious love for life, commitment to his community, and the lasting impact he made on all those fortunate to know him.

Memorials may be made to Holy Communion Lutheran Church, 103 West Church Street, Dallas, North Carolina 2803 and/or VAI Hospice,

Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com. Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia (704) 864-5144 is serving the Family.