Obituary, Washington Observer-Reporter, Jan. 11, 1999:
“Francis T. Riggs
Retired salesman
Francis T. Riggs of 251 Crest Avenue, Washington, died unexpectedly Sunday, January 10, 1999, in his home.
He was born September 10, 1899, near Rea, a son of William Dickerson Riggs and Ida Belle Francis Riggs.
From the time of his father’s death until his mother remarried, beginning when he was 15 years old, Mr. Riggs worked as a farmer. He later moved to Washington and eventually began a career as a salesman of cemetery memorials in Washington and Greene counties that spanned more than four decades.
He was the oldest active member of First Christian Church of Washington, where he had served as a deacon. In 1940, he was instrumental in organizing the Washington Church Dartball League, in which he participated until his death.
Mr. Riggs was well known as a collector of historic antique guns and glass, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He was a life member of Washington Lodge 164 F&AM, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Consistory of New Castle, Syria Temple A.A.O.N.M.S. of Pittsburgh and the Syria Temple Auto Club. He was a member of the George Washington Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution and was a charter member of the Washington Branch of AARP.
On September 22, 1926, in First Christian Church, Washington, with Dr. John W. Love officiating, he married Thelma Ullom, who died October 11, 1993.
Surviving are a daughter, Carla J. Riggs of Washington; and a son, Kyle D. Riggs of Washington.
Deceased are a brother, Glenn W. Riggs of Independence; and two sisters, Mrs. John W. Miller of Claysville and Mrs. Dessie Piper of Warnick, Ohio.”922