Linda R. (Riggleman) Burgess

Linda Ruth (Riggleman) Burgess, age 78 of Rustburg, VA and formerly of Arthur, WV passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Heritage Hall Health Center in Blackstone, Virginia.

Linda was born on October 7, 1947 and was a daughter of the late Brook Branson Riggleman and Clara Eveline (Newhouse) Riggleman. In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her husband, James Owen Burgess on October 14, 2020; one daughter, Konnie Jean (Burgess) Sampsell and an infant grandson, Sean Robert Sampsell; three sisters, Mary “Fleta” Mason, Betty Jean Bean and infant Orpha Loraine Riggleman; six brothers, Julian E. Riggleman, Donald B. Riggleman, Armond D. “Sonny” Riggleman, Russell B. Riggleman, Robert A. “Bobby" Riggleman, and Delmas R. “Jake” Riggleman.

Linda is survived by three sons, Kevin (Janet) Burgess of Amarillo, Texas, Kendall (Theresa) Burgess of Arthur, WV and Kenric (Beverly) Burgess of Rustburg, VA; eleven grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; one sister, Alice (Virgil) Wimer of Montrose, VA and numerous nieces and nephews. Linda also leaves behind three life-long friends, Edna Harman, Shirley Kile and Donna Myers.

Linda attended Moorefield High School and was a valued employee at Hester’s Industries, later Wampler Longacre in Moorefield and retired in 2015.  Linda’s work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident in her many years of dedicated service. Anyone who knew Linda Burgess, knew Linda was a force to be reckoned with, and that she loved her family and friends fiercely. You better believe she would fight for her family, whether they were right or wrong. She was never afraid to stand up and speak her mind regardless of who you were but, also would be willing to help anyone in need.

An avid gardener, Linda’s flower beds were a vibrant tapestry of colors that reflected the beauty and creativity of her soul. Linda enjoyed reading and making hard tac candy every year, and it was a fact that her children and grandchildren were going to help whether they wanted to or not or just stay busy with one of her many projects. The word “QUIT” was not in her vocabulary. Linda touched so many people’s lives, whether from all her years at Hester’s or from her work with the church.

Linda’s family will receive friends on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg, WV from 12 Noon till 2:00 PM.  Funeral service will begin at 2 PM with Pastor Daryl Dunsmore officiating.  In honoring Linda’s wishes her body will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Burgess family, c/o Schaeffer Funeral Home, 11 North Main Street, Petersburg, WV  26847.

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