James B. Riggs, 76 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, Michigan passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 26, 2017 at his home with his loving family at his side and under the care of Great Lakes Caring Hospice.
Born April 30, 1941 in Monroe, Jim was the son of the late Burnette and Katie V. (Sweat) Riggs. He attended Lincoln Elementary School and Monroe High School.
On August 1, 1959, Jim married his beloved wife, the former Iona McPeek, in Monroe. Jim worked as foreman out of Laborers' local 465 for 22 years from which he retired in December of 1993.
Jim was a Golden Gloves Champion and fought in the Michigan Tough Man Competition in 1980. He enjoyed playing softball, golfing, and cooking for his grandchildren. Most of all Jim cherished time spent with his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Iona, five loving children: Robin Riggs of Sylvania, OH, James (Mary Kay) Riggs, Michelle (Marty) Farris, Jeff (Cheri) Riggs and Jason (Angie) Riggs all of Monroe, a special friend: Beth Wirick, cherished grandchildren: Nichole (Adam) Price, Jeremy and Joshua Riggs, Mark Bourbina, Joey Bussdieker, Jerid, Justin, Megan, Drake, and Preslie Riggs, Amaya and Ryan Leslie, and Abby Wirick, treasured great grandchildren: Mikenzy and Maddin Bourbina, Stella and Tessa Price, siblings: Edward "Dickie" (Carol) Riggs, Shirley (Richard) Kirby, Betty (Richard) Cousino and two sister in laws: Bonnie and Fran Riggs all of Monroe.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by three sisters: Opal Miller, Clydie Riggs, Lucille Williams and five brothers: George, Arnold, William John, Tommy, and Joseph.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, MI, 48161. On Saturday, July 29, 2017 he will lie in state at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church from 10:00 AM until funeral services celebrating his life at 11:00 AM. The Rev. Roy Southerland, pastor of the church, will officiate. Private interment services will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Joe's Boxing Club, Great Lakes Caring Hospice or to a charity of the donor's choice.