Committal
In loving memory, Frederick M. Riggs, Sr., 85, of Morganton, NC, passed away Monday, March 17, 2025.
Born in Wayne County, NC on June 7, 1939, he was the son of the late William Alex Riggs and Laura Alligood Riggs.
Frederick graduated from Vanderbilt University where he served in the ROTC and played football. His senior year he was captain of the football team, and he was entered into the Hall of Fame for his football abilities in Valdosta, GA. After college, he served in the US Army. Frederick went to work for Owens-Illinois Glass Company and for Boeing as an engineer.
Faith was also important to Mr. Riggs. He was a member and served in multiple capacities at Linville United Methodist Church, and also when he lived in southern California. A quiet-giver and selfless man, he was always looking for ways to help others. He was a counselor for young men in Toledo, OH and took pride in helping through Burke United Christian Ministries (BUCM). He lived by John Wesley’s Rule. “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” He “never let his left hand know what his right hand was doing.”
Frederick enjoyed puzzles and watercolor painting, and he was an avid golfer and struggling fisherman.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. Riggs is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean Baltzell Riggs; son, Frederick M. Riggs, Jr. (Laura) and Victor W. Riggs (Renee); and grandchildren, Frederick M. “Derick” Riggs, III (Pam), Brandon Riggs, Christian Riggs, Abigal Riggs, Kathryn Riggs, Irene Riggs, and Caroline Riggs.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Riggs was preceded in death by two brothers, David Brian “Toby” Riggs and William Mack Riggs.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m., Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A celebration of his life will be held from 3 to 5 p.m., Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Linville United Methodist Church in Morganton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Burke United Christian Ministries, 305 B West Union St. Morganton, NC 28655 or to Linville United Methodist Church, 4446 NC 126, Morganton, NC 28655.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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June, My love is reaching out to you. So sorry for your loss. Your Friend Donna
Jean and Family, We're very sorry for your great loss. In eleven short years, Fred became a part of Burke County making friends and becoming a part of the community. He lived his life doing for others in quiet humbleness. He never made a show of his generosity and was ready to help. Until his health failed, he worked every Tuesday in the food distribution center at Burke United Christian Center. He was active at Linville United Methodist Church where he made an impact on all. He was a good man. His love of Jean was obvious to all. It was a privilege knowing him and wish it could have been longer. Let this scripture comfort you. John 11:25-26: Jesus said..., “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me will live, even though he dies. And everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die..." With love and sympathy, Janie and Steve
Sending thoughts and prayers for the family of a man who was honorable and loved by many. I see the many qualities Mr. Riggs bestowed upon Rick and his family, who are very dear to us. Rick and Laura serve others with joy and selflessness and were beside us in our losses. Mr. Riggs' grandsons, Derick, a hardworking, generous soul with his wife Pam with share a wanderlust spirit, Brandon who also played football as Mr. Riggs, and is a warm kind soul, to Christian who is the glue to our unbreakable family bond. We love you and honor you and share our deepest condolences.
