James Edward Riggs, 82, of Desdemona, Texas passed away August 27, 2017, surrounded by his family.

He was born January 26, 1935, in Desdemona to Newton Edny and Ethel Brown Riggs. James married Freda Lewis December 24, 1955. They were happily married for sixty one years.

James attended Desdemona High School graduating in in 1952. He was a member of Lake Leon Baptist Church. He served as a Deacon at Desdemona First Baptist Church for many years. James, along with his sons Michael and Stephen, owned and operated Riggs Backhoe Service and Riggs Cemetery Service for nearly forty years. He also farmed and ranched for many years. His family is proud of his reputation for honesty and hard work and having been blessed by his Christian faith and leadership. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, neighbor and friend. All who knew and loved James will miss him beyond measure.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Freda Riggs; son, Stephen Riggs and wife, Beth; daughter, Sherry Bibby and husband, Danny; grandchildren, Callie Ahuja and husband, Rajan, Mica Tomlinson and husband, Chris, Jordan Riggs, Rachel Riggs, Aaron Riggs, Matthew Bibby, Asha Bibby, Zeke Bibby and Josh Bibby; great-grandchildren, Arabella Riggs, Avinash Ahuja, Liam Tomlinson and Ben Tomlinson; daughters-in-law, Mary Riggs and Tracy Riggs; numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

James was preceded in death by his son, Michael Riggs; grandson, James Allen Bibby; parents, N.E. and Ethel Riggs; and four sisters, Lora Jones, Almarie Fox, Hazel Koonce and Ruby Hathaway.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 30, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. at Nowlin Anders Funeral Home with Brother Craig Rhoton officiating. Graveside services followed in Howard Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice, in memory of James.