Wes Sarginson, a cherished face on Atlanta television screens for more than four decades, has died at the age of 82 after a battle with esophageal cancer.
Fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on the enormous impact of a journalist who combined tireless work ethic with a genuine passion for storytelling.
Born with a knack for news, Sarginson made his mark not just as a news anchor, but as a reporter who would go the extra mile to bring stories to life.
His career included stints at WSB-TV and 11Alive, and he remained a household name long after stepping away from the anchor desk.
A Workday Like No Other
For those who worked alongside him, a typical day for Wes was nothing short of legendary.
Anchoring the 6pm news, heading out to cover a breaking story with a photographer, and then returning for the 11pm broadcast was standard fare.
His relentless energy earned him admiration from colleagues.
Keith Whitney, a former reporter for 11Alive, described him to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as “that industrial-strength breed of TV news anchor who could out-reporter reporters, outwrite writers, and out-storytell storytellers.
He was one of the last of his class. A master class. We won’t see news giants like him again.”
Early Career and Civil Rights Reporting
Sarginson’s career began humbly as a junior reporter at WKAB-TV.
One of his earliest notable assignments included interviewing the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. prior to the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery march — a moment that foreshadowed a life dedicated to meaningful storytelling.
From Cleveland to Philadelphia, Washington DC to Detroit, Sarginson honed his craft before landing at WSB-TV in Atlanta in 1978.
There, he co-anchored Action News alongside Monica Pearson for six years, building a reputation as a hard-working, approachable, and brilliant journalist.
Pearson remembered him fondly, saying, “He was one of the hardest working people I know.
He was a good ol’ boy but smart as a whip.
He loved to write. And he was really a people person.”
Wes Side Stories and Community Impact
After leaving Atlanta in 1984, Sarginson eventually moved to WFLA-TV in Tampa, Florida, in 1988. It was there that he launched his beloved “Wes Side Stories,” short, human-interest segments designed to shine a light on people in need.
One memorable segment raised $76,000 for a child’s organ transplant, demonstrating his talent for turning journalism into tangible help for the community.
Returning to Atlanta in 1997, Sarginson joined 11Alive as a morning anchor before moving to the evening desk with Brenda Wood in 1998.
He continued reporting on major events, including the 1998 Hall County tornadoes, the Heritage High School shooting, and the 2006 Winter Olympics.
Yet, “Wes Side Stories” remained his passion, combining storytelling with genuine compassion.
Awards, Recognition, and Legacy
Over the course of his storied career, Sarginson earned eight Emmy Awards, five United Press International awards, and seven Associated Press honors — a testament to his skill, dedication, and influence in broadcast journalism.
After retiring from anchoring in 2007, he continued producing “Wes Side Stories” under contract until March 2008, ensuring his legacy of heart-driven journalism endured.
Family and Personal Life
Wes Sarginson is survived by his wife, Ann, his children Todd and Jennifer, and three grandchildren.
Colleagues recall a man who was deeply devoted to family, community, and the craft of journalism, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by viewers and peers alike.
What’s Next?
WSB-TV and 11Alive are planning tributes to celebrate Sarginson’s life and work.
Fans can expect special broadcasts highlighting his most impactful stories, particularly the beloved “Wes Side Stories” that touched so many lives.
Local journalism organizations are also considering posthumous honors to recognize his decades of service.
As the city mourns, the broader journalism community is reflecting on how figures like Sarginson shaped modern broadcast news — reminding a new generation of reporters of the dedication, courage, and heart that define true storytelling.
Summary
Atlanta news legend Wes Sarginson, who spent over 40 years anchoring and reporting at WSB-TV and 11Alive, has died at 82 from esophageal cancer.
Known for his tireless work ethic and compassionate human-interest stories, Sarginson created the beloved “Wes Side Stories,” raising awareness and funds for those in need.
He earned multiple Emmy, UPI, and AP awards, leaving a lasting mark on journalism.
He is survived by his wife Ann, two children, and three grandchildren, and will be remembered as a pioneering figure in broadcast news.
