Evelyn I. (Gillespie) Riggleman

Evelyn Irene (Gillespie) Riggleman, age 87 of Petersburg, WV passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025 at Grant Memorial Hospital in Petersburg.

Evelyn was born on September 6, 1937 in Tazwell, Virginia and was a daughter of the late

 Luther Clinton Gillespie and Clara Elizabeth (Simpson) Gillespie.

 In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Denver Lee Riggleman, Sr. on March 4, 2015 and granddaughter, Shelly Raquel Riggleman, three brothers, Junior Gillespie, Carter Gillespie and Reves Gillespie; seven sisters, Maddie Fewell, Margaret Dawson, Martha Griffith, Mallie Riggleman, Mildred Cameron, Ruth Jenkins, and infant Mary Ellen Gillespie.

 Evelyn was a devoted mother to her son, Denver L. Riggleman Jr. (wife Robin) of Petersburg, WV and her daughter, Phyllis Poland (husband Gary) of Panama City, Florida; six grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren and eleven great-great grandchildren; one brother, Jimmy Gillespie of Lovingston, VA and sister-in-law, Audrey Riggleman Petersburg, VA and numerous nieces and nephews.

Evelyn’s remarkable life is celebrated by her cherished son and daughter, who were her pride and joy, along with her adored grandchildren and great grandchildren and eleven great-great grandchildren who brought her immeasurable happiness. Her commitment to her community was further exemplified by her longstanding membership in the Living Hope Baptist Church. Evelyn’s faith was a vital part of her life, and she lived every day with a grace that inspired those around her.

 Evelyn’s family will receive friends on Monday, May 5, 2025 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg, WV.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM in the chapel of Schaeffer Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Smith, Rev. Kevin Sions, and Pastor Dan Biser.

Interment will be in Lahmansville Cemetery.

Evelyn’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to Living Hope Baptist Church/Operation Christmas Child, 1011 North Fork Hwy, Petersburg, WV 26847.

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