Wise, Virginia                                                               October 8, 2023

James "Jimmie" Riggs, 81, passed away at his home in Wise, Virginia on October 6, 2023.  His greatest accomplishment was being the proud father of three sons, Jamey Riggs, Jason Riggs, and Jody Riggs.  He was an amazing grandfather to Abbey Riggs, Frances Gray Riggs, Cole Riggs, and Zane Riggs.

Jimmie was a friend to all who met him.  He showed his love best through his banter and quick wit shared with his friends and family.  He was a long-time member of the Lonesome Pine Country Club.  He was an enthusiastic and prolific golfer and had many golfing buddies.  He could hit a ball farther and more accurately at age 81 than most people, regardless of their age. He and his buddies enjoyed many trips and told many fantastic tales.  He loved a Krispy Kreme doughnut and never had an empty candy dish. He loved Dolly Parton, and would often exclaim, "That is one talented lady."   His Louis L'Amour books were thoroughly read, and he never got tired of listening to the 50's songs of his youth.  He was always available as a father, grandfather, brother, and friend.  He was very good at offering unsolicited advice.

The last six months of Jimmie's life were difficult for those who loved him.  He said, "What will be, will be."  The only benefit of illness is that it gives you time to be together and to say the things you need to say.  Numerous are the stories of his youth, the fun times with his children and the more recent drives and visits he has had with his boys.  His love and devotion to his children, grandchildren, mother, and sister was unmatched.  He was generous with his time (traveling to see his boys and his grandkids, eating a meal with his sister and brother-in-law, and golfing with his friends), his talents (he could build or remodel anything), and his love (he bought the best cards ever).  He will be missed every day and quoted often as friends and family gather.

Jimmie is survived by his mother, Frances Harris Riggs, his sister Lynda Poston (Pedie), his uncle Larry Harris (Carolyn), his sons Jamey, Jason (Karen), and Jody Riggs, and his grandchildren Abbey, Frances Gray, Cole, and Zane Riggs. His nieces Jan Tester, Dana Fleming, Cindy Stanley, and Rebecca Williams.  Uncle Jimmie will be remembered by his numerous great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Riggs and his sister, Janice Riggs.

Jimmie was a graduate of Clinch Valley College and East Tennessee State University, receiving his bachelor's degree.  He also received a master's degree from Virginia Tech.  He taught at St. Paul and Appalachia Elementary Schools.   Jimmie spent a portion of his career as a coal miner.  He also was an instructor for Mine Safety through Mountain Empire Community College.  He finished his career as a school counselor at Wise Primary School.

The family would like to thank the incredible Hospice providers that cared for Jimmie and his family since June.  Donations to St. Jude's in Jimmie's honor would be his wish, a charity he always supported.  He often said, "No child should have cancer."

Graveside Service will be conducted 1 P.M. Friday, October 13, 2023, at the Skeen Cemetery Powell Valley Road Big Stone Gap, Virginia with Pastor Phillip Bates officiating. Family and friends will meet at cemetery at 12:45 P.M. please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to sign guest register book online. Sturgill Funeral Homes 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, Virginia 24293 in charge of arrangements.