Bobby Earl Riggs

Obituary for Bobby Earl Riggs (1940-2025) Retired US Air Force Veteran Bobby Earl Riggs left this life on February 9th, 2025, at the age of 84. Bobby proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, concluding his career at Moody A.F.B. Valdosta, Ga. Born in Birmingham, AL to Clement and Flossie Marie Riggs, he was the youngest of eight siblings. All have preceded him in death except for one sister. Bobby was treasured by his family and friends and will be remembered for his witty and charismatic sense of humor, his gentle heart for dogs, his talent as a woodworker, and his passion for gardening, classic cars, westerns, playing guitar, country music, and starting each day with his morning cup of coffee. Bobby's life was full of love and family. He married his first wife, Mary, who traveled with him during his military career. Together they raised 5 children: Michael, Robert (Julie), John (Theresa), Rosemaire (George), and James (Barbara). After retiring from the Air Force, Bobby found love again with Ava Nelle. They spent many happy years together in Valdosta and Griffin, GA with their children and grandchildren. Following her passing, he shared his later years with his devoted fiancé Connie, who departed this life shortly before he did. As Grandpa, Bobby created lasting memories with his 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He spent summers teaching them life’s lessons - how to fish, swim, play cards, strum a guitar, and appreciate fresh vegetables from his garden. His love was shared in the custom pieces he crafted for each grandchild in his woodshop. He had a special way of making each of them feel like his favorite. Despite always telling his grandkids to put their cell phones away, Bobby was always just a phone call away for his children and grandchildren. He was there to help fix cars, build decks or just chat. "He will be missed dearly but will remain forever in our hearts. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched.” A private celebration of life will be held on Saturday at noon, March 15th.