J. MORRIS RIGGS

July 29, 1939 - June 12, 2007
SOUTH BEND - J. Morris Riggs, 67, died after a battle with lung cancer at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 12, 2007, at home in the arms of his wife, Karen A. Riggs. He was born July 29, 1939, in Bardstown, Kentucky, to the late William L. and Mary F. Riggs.

Morris moved to South Bend at an early age and attended Washington-Clay High School before joining the United States Marine Corps in February 1957. While serving his country proudly for three years he finished his high school education and received his G.E.D, and was later honorably discharged in 1960 as a private first class.

On February 10, 1962, he married Karen A. Schloemer at St. Pius X Catholic Church, who survives. He is also survived by two sons, Donald M. (Susan) and Dean E. (Peg) Riggs, both of Granger; along with four grandchildren, Emily, Donnie, Drew and Ben.

His five brothers, James E. Riggs, Francis L. Riggs, Phillip Riggs, J. Marvin Riggs and Joseph B. Riggs, all of South Bend, Indiana, preceded Morris in death.

His four sisters survive him. They are Lillian "Doll" Foster of Louisville, Kentucky, Louise Thout, Margaret Brittain and Barbara Long, all of South Bend, Indiana.

Morris was a loving husband and devoted father. He raised a family while working 26 years at Torrington's in South Bend as a machinist, and later as the owner and operator of Central Park Liquor. He was a member of American Legion Post 161 in Mishawaka. Morris will always be remembered as an avid Harley rider.

Friends are calling today, Thursday, June 14, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the McGann Hay Funeral Home, Granger, and Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. in the church. A vigil service will be at 4 p.m. today in the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday in St. Pius X Catholic Church, with Rev. Daniel Scheidt officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riverbend Cancer Services, 711 E. Colfax, South Bend, IN 46617.

Published by South Bend Tribune on Jun. 14, 2007.

11/05/2022 EJS