Tom O. Riggs

Tom Riggs, 72, of Highland, IL, died Tuesday, March 8, 2016, at Mercy Hospital, St. Louis, MO.

Tom was born August 14, 1943, to Clifton and Doris (nee Zeller) Riggs in Highland, IL. On May 22, 1965, he married Cherie Dubach at St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland, IL.

He graduated Highland High School in 1961 and received his Bachelor’s Degree from SIUE. He taught at Bunker Hill and coached baseball and basketball, then coached basketball at Greenfield, and then moved to Highland High and coached freshmen football and basketball.  He then went to work for Reichmann Transport, Inc., Granite City, IL  for 30 years before retirement.

He loved to follow his grandkids in their sporting events. He was a big sports fanatic for high school and college and American Legion baseball.  He never met a stranger.  He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids, and enjoyed bowling.

He is survived by his wife, Cherie Riggs, Highland, IL; daughter, Michelle (Andy) Brooks, Gig Harbor, WA; son, Scott (Mylene) Riggs, Barnhart, MO; grandchildren, Grant Riggs, Noah, Cameron, and Collin Brooks, Elle Kate Riggs; step granddaughter, Caitlyn McNail; brother, Terry Riggs, Highland, IL; sister, Jacque (Clark) Barnes, Springfield, IL; sister-in-law, Karla Riggs, Highland, IL; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifton and Doris Riggs; brother, Ted Riggs.

Memorials may be made to Highland High School Athletic Department – Track & Softball or American Legion Baseball.

Visitation: Friday, March 11, 2016, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm and Saturday, March 12, 2016, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL.

Funeral Service: Saturday, March 12, 2016, at 1:00 pm, at Meridith Funeral Home.

Clergy: Rev. Fr. Pat Jakel, Pastor, St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland, IL.

Interment: Highland City Cemetery.

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL.