James Rigby

James “Jim” M. Rigby, 90, originally of Gulf Breeze, died on August 17, 2022, in Birmingham, Alabama.  He was born and raised in Brewton, Alabama, leaving for the U.S. Navy after graduating from T.R. Miller High School in May 1951.  After returning from his time in the service, Jim began working for Monsanto in Pensacola and completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of West Florida. He worked for over 30 years before retiring to begin a second career as an elected official on the Santa Rosa School Board. While a member of the school board, Jim was also elected to be president of the board.  During his years in Gulf Breeze, Jim was an active member of the Lions Club, the Masonic Lodge of Gulf Breeze, and Gulf Breeze Presbyterian Church.  He served the Gulf Breeze and Santa Rosa County communities for many years as a resident.  When not working, Jim enjoyed hunting in the woods of Alabama with close friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Leroy and Ida Mae Rigby, sister, Stella Kate Rigby Chase, and wife, Marilyn Long Rigby.  He is survived by his sister, Margie Rigby Weaver; sister, Bessie Mae Rigby Randolph, and brother, Lavon (Clara) Rigby; his children, Leigh Rigby Shepherd (Steven), James “J.R.” C. Rigby, and Kay Tyree; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Lulu and Ed Perry. He has five grandchildren, Leigh Ann Dodd, Jessica Shepherd, Joshua Shepherd, Candance D. Woodby, and Sparkle M. Keith; two great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; as well as a host of other family members and dear friends.

A graveside service will be held at Rose Lawn Cemetery on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.