John Riggs

Rural Higbee, MO resident, John Riggs, age 75, passed away peacefully at his home February 6, 2023.

John William Riggs was born September 18, 1947 in Harriman, TN.  He was a son to the late Ralph and Betty Lee (McClain) Riggs.  At the age of 19, John joined the U.S. Army.  John served his country valiantly and with honor.  He became an Army Ranger and participated in numerous missions including three tours in Vietnam, service in Germany and the Falklands, and his final tour in Desert Storm.  On September 1, 1983, after 25 years of distinguished service to his country, John was honorably discharged, retiring from the Army as Sergeant First Class.  On March 6, 1996, John married Mary Ann Cooper.  The couple moved to their Missouri residence in 2000 and settled between Higbee and Fayette.  On September 19, 2007, John and Mary Ann proudly reaffirmed their vows to each other.  Post Military retirement, John began working for Crete Carrier Corporation as a truck driver hauling General Mills products.  It was a job held for 18 years.  In his spare time, John loved fishing and hunting.

Survivors include his wife of the home, Mary Ann Riggs; three children, Melissa Rentschler, James Keith Riggs and Georgine Kipp Riggs; nine grandchildren, A.J., William, Anthony, Noah, Nathan, Miles, Kaylie, Iris and Sophie; and a brother, David (Kim) Riggs.  He is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents, John was preceded by a son, John Kevin Riggs and five siblings, Joseph Riggs, James Riggs, Peggy Golightly, Mary Gibson and Tony Riggs.

A celebration of life for Mr. Riggs will be held in Tennessee at a later date, at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Coyote Hill or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, c/o Friemonth-Freese Funeral Service, 174 Hwy. 5 & 240 N., Fayette, MO 65248.

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