Effie Riggle

Effie Riggle (née Santee), a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Effie attended Chicago schools and remained a proud resident of her beloved city for many years. It was in her neighborhood that she met the love of her life, James Riggle. The two were married on May 5, 1951, and together shared 73 years of marriage.

Effie was well known in her community for her independence and energetic spirit—often seen riding her bicycle through the neighborhood on errands, or just enjoying the day. Effie spent many years researching genealogy and compiled hundreds of descendant names and family trees. She was an avid computer user for this, and switched from PC to Apple at 80 years old, and was amazed at how easy the switch was. A strong and feisty woman, Effie dedicated her life to raising her children and caring for her grandchildren, always putting family first. Her love ran deep and her presence brought strength and warmth to those around her.

She will be deeply missed by her children: Thomas Riggle of Palatine, Illinois; Diane Reeves of Galena, Illinois; Daniel Riggle of Maryland; and James Riggle and his wife Kim of Virginia; her daughter-in-law Laurie Riggle of Savanna; eight grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

Effie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James; her sons Richard, Charles, and John; and her daughter Barbara.