Mary Jo Riggs (Watson) passed away on August 17, 2022, in Amarillo, Texas.
Services will be held at 1 PM, Saturday, August 20, 2022, in Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, with burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.
Mary Jo was born in Memphis Texas, to Wilma and Jess Watson, on February 22, 1932, and she was raised in Childress and Amarillo. She never knew her father, he died before she was born. She graduated from Amarillo High School in May of 1950.She met the love of her life Van E. Riggs her senior year at AHS.
She married Van E. Riggs, on June 17, 1950, at First Baptist Church in Amarillo. They were married for 66 years. Together they had three children, Vana Jo, Karen, and David. Family was the most important thing to her. Her hobbies included, Cooking, looking at new cars and homes with Van, and spending time with family. Together Mary Jo and Van attended Kingswood United Methodist Church Until December 29, 2019 when it closed. Mary Jo was very active in not only her children’s lives, but just as active in her grandchildren’s lives. She attended school functions, sporting events, plays and pretty much anything they asked her to go to. She was very active in Recycled Teens and Aldersgate Sunday school class.
She is preceded in death by her husband, daughter; Karen, sister, two brothers, and parents.
She is survived by her children; Vana Riggs Sheffield, David Riggs and wife Lorna; grandchildren, Tyson L. Sheffield, Traci Lyn Williams and husband Michael, Ryan Lea Riggs, Beau Brian Riggs and wife Amber; great-grandchildren, Tylie June Sheffield, Crimsun Jerree Nunn, Kye Brian Riggs, Madisun Lea Rodriguez, Tye Van Sheffield, Kasen Bentley Riggs, Riggs Michael Williams, Eavi Lee Jolyn Williams.
So very sorry to hear of the passing of sweet Mary Jo! Always a joy to know for so many years at Kingswood United Methodist Church.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers be with the family during this difficult time.
Mary Jo will be missed!
Vana Jo sorry to hear of your loss
I became close to Mary Jo when I was the Hospice nurse for Van in their home. She was the kindest lady and her love for Van was immeasurable . Prayers for Vana , David and Tyson who were all such good caregivers and loved their parents.
Debi Stavenhagen, RN
The definition of “Legacy” is something that is passed on. A Legacy may be of one’s faith, ethics and core values… A Legacy may come from one’s character, reputation and the life you lead – setting an example for others. Mary Jo, you and Van built, lived and bequeathed a Legacy (an outline for living, if you will) for your children and generations to follow. Personally, I’m a beneficiary of your committed hard work through 4 generations of your family. Thank you.
Growing up Mary Jo was like my 2nd Mom…my mother & her were best friends…glad you are home with Van & Karen…great childhood memories with lots of love and affection….rest well Mary Jo your job is done. Love- Gloria Alward Hudspeth