Doug Kingsmore Obituary: A beloved Upstate native and iconic former baseball player, Doug Kingsmore, has passed away.
The sad news was confirmed by Clemson University on the night of December 5, 2023, in Greenville.
The Upstate community will fondly remember his baseball legacy and deep roots.
Doug Kingsmore was a formidable force for the Tigers during a three-season stint from 1952 to 1954.
His commitment to Clemson University extended to governance, as he served three distinguished terms on the Clemson University Board of Trustees.
Following his collegiate baseball journey, he dedicated three impactful years to professional baseball within the Baltimore Orioles organization.
Transitioning seamlessly from the sports arena to the business world, Kingsmore embarked on a successful career.
Doug Kingsmore Death: Honoring a Tiger Legend
On Tuesday evening, the Clemson Tigers announced the passing of Doug Kingsmore, marking a sad moment for the University community.
The news prompted expressions of grief from the University, with a poignant statement released on Wednesday, December 6, 2023.
Clemson University Board Chair Kim Wilkerson reflected on Kingsmore’s enduring impact:
“While we are saddened by the news of the passing of Doug Kingsmore, his legacy and impact at Clemson will live on for generations to come. His passion for our University was on display from the moment he arrived at Clemson as a student-athlete and continued through his service as a trustee and trustee emeritus.”
Wilkerson continued to capture Kingsmore’s vibrant spirit, stating,
“Doug’s great laugh could brighten a whole room, and we will miss seeing him proudly wearing his Clemson Orange and Tiger Paw, which he wore nearly every day.”
Clemson President Jim Clements echoed these sentiments in a separate statement, emphasizing Kingsmore’s role as a champion for Clemson University.
“Doug Kingsmore was a champion for Clemson University. Through his leadership and service at Clemson, from his time as a student and star student-athlete to his many years on the Board of Trustees, Doug made Clemson a better place. He was an amazing person whose commitment to Clemson will continue to positively impact our community for years to come.”
Reflecting on Kingsmore’s Clemson career, which spanned from 1951-54, it is noteworthy that his final season stood as a testament to his excellence and enduring impact.
The University and its community will undoubtedly cherish the memory of Doug Kingsmore, recognizing his profound contributions to Clemson’s legacy.
Doug Kingsmore Obituary: Graveside Service
Doug’s funeral is scheduled for December 17, 2023, at Clemson University’s Woodland Cemetery, followed by an intimate Celebration of Life Ceremony.
Duckett-Robinson Funeral Home in Central, SC, is managing the arrangements.
Instead of floral tributes, the family kindly requests that memorials be directed to Dabo’s All In Team Foundation at the following address: Dabo’s All In Team Foundation P.O. Box 1585 Clemson, SC 29633.
Doug, a devoted husband and cherished father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, leaves a lasting legacy.
Survived by his wife of 68 years, Vicki Heard Kingsmore, he is also remembered by his sons, Samuel N. Kingsmore (Twila) of Powdersville, SC, and Michael D. Kingsmore (Susie) of Easley, SC.
Additionally, he is survived by two granddaughters, Ashley K. Kern (Matt) and Brittney K. Bolt (Matt), along with one grandson, Tyler D. Kingsmore (Janey).
The family tree extends to nine great-grandchildren: Mary Tyler Bolt, Davis Bolt, Ellory Kern, Corbin Kern, Calhoun Kingsmore, Baylor Bolt, Evelyn Kingsmore, Annie Bolt, and Hattie Kingsmore.
His sister, Judy K. Hart (Robert), and numerous nieces and nephews also hold a cherished place in the circle of those who remember him fondly.
