James Lee Riggins

James Lee Riggins passed away at his home in Huntsville, TX on August 9, 2024. James was born July 17, 1962 in Ventura, CA to Betty & Lyle Riggins. After growing up and thriving in the Southern California beach life, he joined the Army and served his country, traveling overseas to Italy, a place he always yearned to return. After the service, he raised two children and made a life in New Mexico until 2010 when he moved to TX with his wife Cindy, following his brothers and mother. Jim was a passionate advocate for homeless animals and served the majority of his career leading animal shelters and animal service organizations in New Mexico. Later in life, he pursued his dream of a degree in economics from NM to TX and eventually worked to help young entrepreneurs launch their budding businesses through different Hatch programs. Jim was always the life of the party (or at least always thought he was) and could make anyone laugh and smile. He could also bore just about anybody with his laborious lectures on economics, much to his enjoyment. He had a passion for fishing, woodworking, and authentic Mexican food (with a requisite for hot Hatch green chile!). His love of animals took him through being a dog-poppa to numerous animals including his beloved Gunther Bartholomew Tentpeg III, Dietrich Bartholomew Tentpeg IV, JoJo, and Maddie. Jim was preceded in death by his youngest brother, Lyle, and his father. He leaves behind his loving wife Cindy, daughter Jennifer (Jeff), son James (Laurie), grandchildren Gracie, Liam, and Henry, brothers Bill (Diane) and Michael (Dario), mother Betty, great Aunt Mary, mother-in-law Anne, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Though not one person in his life was ready to say goodbye, Jim’s presence will continue to be felt and cherished in the many memories and stories of the loved ones left behind. His family takes comfort in knowing he was met enthusiastically in Heaven by the innumerable animals he loved as well as his father and brother. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial condolences to the family may be made at www.shmfh.com.

James Lee Riggins

July 17, 1962 - August 9, 2024