Leslie A Spalding

Leslie Spalding, 72, died surrounded by family at Three Rivers Hospital, Sunday July 21, 2024.

 Leslie was born November 9, 1951 to Merve and Sally Spalding. She lived her entire life in Grants Pass, Oregon and was fiercely proud of her town, her family and the Oregon Ducks. She attended both Grants Pass High School and University of Oregon. She loved all things sports (especially the Oregon Ducks, golf, and the Olympics), travel, was an extremely well-regarded chef/cook, and had a deep affection for dogs and animals. She was devoted to her family. 

 Leslie had entrepreneurship in her blood and owned her own business. She was the longtime owner of Redwood Travel and had a loyal set of clients whom she served for many years. Gramsy, as she was known to her grandchildren, used her skills and knowledge to plan family trips, taking her children and grandchildren on many wonderful adventures around the world. 

 Leslie was deeply engaged in her community and gave back by serving on numerous local boards. Focused on education, she served on the board of the Rogue Community College Foundation for 20 years, including a term as President. She also served on the Grants Pass Tourism Advisory Committee, trying to bring more activity and investment to downtown. 

 Leslie was preceded in death by her parents, Merve and Sally Spalding. She is survived by those who miss her wit and strength, including her daughters Kate (Andy) Burke of Mill Valley, CA and Megan Watson of Tigard, OR, her granddaughters, Josie and Pippa Burke and her two sisters Libby (Ted) Watts and Erin Spalding. 

 A celebration of life is scheduled for August 13th at Hull & Hull, in Grants Pass, Oregon, at 11 o’clock. In lieu of flowers, please send donations for the Grants Pass Library at the Josephine County Library Foundation or the Rogue Community College Foundation. 

 Leslie left her family a legacy of kindness, can do spirit, humor, amazing recipes and generosity. She will be missed by all. 

Please share a memory of Leslie in her guestbook.