Bom-Wrapper

Robert Rigsby
Memorial Candle Tribute From
Dryden Funeral Home
"We are honored to provide this Book of Memories to the family."
View full message >>>

Obituary for Robert Edward Rigsby Sr.

Robert Edward  Rigsby Sr.
Rigsby
Heflin - Robert Edward Rigsby, 85, of Heflin passed away on June 12, 2017 after an extended illness.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12:00 noon Thursday, June 15th, at Heflin Baptist Church, Heflin, AL, with Reverend Joe Rigsby, Robert’s brother, officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 10:00am.

Robert was born March 29, 1932 at the family home in Oklahoma City, OK, the eldest child of the late William Bernard Rigsby and the late Gladys Lucille Rigsby, née Beason. The family lived in Oklahoma until Robert’s father was drafted into the US Army to fight in World War II. Prior to being deployed, Robert’s father moved his family from Oklahoma to Heflin, AL so they would be near family during his absence. The family lived in Heflin for the duration of the war. Robert fell in love with northeast Alabama during this time. Following the war and the safe return of Robert’s father, the family moved from Heflin to west Texas. Robert graduated from Odessa High School, Odessa, TX, where he excelled as a trumpet player in the band. He went on to graduate in 1955 from Texas Tech University with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Robert spent his professional life working in the oil industry. He worked in the west Texas oil patch until 1965 when he accepted a position with Standard Oil in Saudi Arabia. He spent the next twenty years working and living in Saudi Arabia where he eventually rose to General Manager responsible for production of oil in the Northern Area of Saudi Arabia. Upon his retirement in 1985, he relocated to his beloved Heflin where he quickly became involved in the community. He ultimately ran for and was elected Mayor of Heflin for 12 years.

Robert is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jeanne’ Rigsby, née Snelson; his sister Suzanne Husband (Earnest); his brother Joe Rigsby (Jane); his children Dorothy Brunson, Gail Blandamar, David Rigsby, Robert Rigsby (Lisa), Randall Rigsby (Laurie); his grandchildren, who affectionately called him Papoi, Ruston, Anna Laurie, Reed, Trey, Banks, Tyler and Rhett; his close friend Shawn Wilson and numerous nephews and nieces. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Terry Rigsby (Gem) and his son, Russell Rigsby.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Robert’s honor to Heflin Baptist Church, Post Office Box 116, Heflin, AL. 36264.

Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of Robert Edward Rigsby Sr., please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Recently Shared Condolences

Recently Shared Stories

Recently Shared Photos

Share by: