Bowling Green, KY - Margaret Ann Riggs, 80, of Bowling Green, Ky. passed away Saturday August 18, 2012, at Greenview Hospital at 9:33 p.m. Margaret was born in Raleigh, N.C. on April 2, 1932. She was preceded in death by her parents Lonnie Thomas and Margaret Ann Morris Duke, and a brother Bob Duke.

Margaret was a loving wife, dedicated mother, adoring grandmother, faithful friend and an adopted "mom" to many. She was known for giving hugs instead of handshakes, making strangers feel welcome, and opening her doors to anyone in need. She spent 32 years as a dedicated Army Wife, moved her family around the world, created a home where ever the army sent them, was a leader, mentor, and patriot throughout her life and made life-long friends wherever she went. She was a member of Eastwood Baptist Church and was baptized in her faith.

She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 59 years Ret. Col. Gary A. "Mickey" Riggs, three sons Dr. Gary A. Riggs, Jr. (Linda) of Hampton, Va., Tim Riggs of Bowling Green, Dr. Michael W. Riggs (Elizabeth) of Bowling Green, one brother Tom Duke (Beth) of Williamsburg, Va., five grandchildren Scott, Sarah, Dean, Parker and Harrison Riggs, a sister-in-law Barbara Mae Riggs of Atlantic Beach, N.C. also several nieces and nephews.

Memorial service will be Saturday August 25 at Eastwood Baptist Church, with visitation from 9 to 11 a.m. with the service immediately following in the church sanctuary. The family chose cremation and arrangements are entrusted to J. C. Kirby and Son Lovers Lane Chapel.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the tremendous professionalism, personal care, and constant support provided by the staff of Greenview Regional Hospital to both Margaret and her family during her lengthy stay at the hospital. Especially Dr. Craig Beard, Dr. Wayne Bush, Dr. Darren Fentress and Nurse Sue Ann Thurman.

Expressions of Sympathy can be made to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.

Published in The Virginian Pilot on August 24, 2012