James Everett Riggins, Sr., 98, better known to friends and family as “Buck Riggins” was a long time resident of Farmersburg, Indiana. He passed away at Sullivan County Community Hospital on October 31, 2019.
He was born in Thorney, Arkansas, October 23, 1921 to William Guy and Grace Florence (Dill) Riggins.
He served his country in the United States Marine Corps in World World II. Buck completed basic training in San Diego, California and joined the 1st Marine Division on the island of Pavuvu in training for the invasion of Okinawa. He was assigned to G-2-7, 1st Marine Division until June of 1945. He was next sent to China to assist in disarming the Japanese forces there.
After the war ended he returned to Camp Pendleton and was honorably discharged. He was awarded the Purple Heart and became a lifetime member of the American Legion of which he was very proud.
Upon returning to civilian life, Buck operated a filling station for many years in the Farmersburg area and was a school bus driver for over 50 years for the NESC. Many of his school kids will remember him as a big, gentle, slow talking and slow motivated good man.
Buck is preceded in death by two wives, Viola (Copeland) Riggins and Nina (Higgins) Riggins, two daughters Shirley Riggins and Donna Riggins Wright and one brother Truman ”C.T.” Riggins. He is survived by one son, James Riggins, Jr. (Freda), two step-daughters Debbie Bosstick and Trudy Bartz (Ron); grandchildren Rob Riggins (Jackie), Ryan Riggins (Andrea), Kim Alcorn, Jennifer Prewitt (Marc), Jason Bosstick (Amanda) and Harold Bosstick; great grandchildren Ariel Alcorn, Madison Alcorn, Michael Riggins, and Kylee Bosstick. Also two very special friends, Steve and Lee Ann Nickless whom he considered more his children than friends.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been chosen. DeBaun Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, November 8, 2019 at Farmersburg Westlawn Chapel with Pastor Jeff Lee officiating and military honors by the American Legion. Burial will follow at Farmersburg Westlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Buck’s honor to the Shelburn American Legion. Online condolences may be made to www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.
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