Beverly Lorraine (Irwin) Riggin, 90

Beverly Lorraine (Irwin) Riggin, 90, passed away peacefully with her family around her on May 12, 2022, at Millwood Heritage Adult Family Home where she resided.

Beverly was born to the late Nelson Amil Irwin and Ella Jane (Socia) (Irwin) Koss on Aug. 3, 1931 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. Growing up in a large family, singing and dancing with her siblings filled her memories.

Ironically, she met and later married her husband James Francis Riggin while he was serving in the Army Airforce, at a dance. They were married Sept. 4, 1948, at the Hitching Post in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. They raised their seven children in Spokane Valley and Otis Orchards, Washington. In 1986, they moved permanently to their “vacation” property at the Pack River in Sandpoint, Idaho.

All who met Beverly knew her life centered around her children. Her gift was her ability to nurture. She had such a big heart which led to fostering children as well. Then, as her own brood started leaving the house, she would make time to babysit for nieces and nephews as well as her grandchildren.

Beverly would welcome all family and friends to her home at the Pack River. She loved sharing her love for the birds, squirrels and deer that frequented her place. Her kindness, feistiness and great sense of humor are why people were drawn to her. She made everyone feel right at home. Beverly was an inspiration. There was no denying her strength and refusal to give up on everything she undertook.

Some of Beverly’s favorite times were watching the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks with her family. And during basketball season, she never missed a Gonzaga Bulldog game. She wore all her teams’ apparel proudly.

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, James Riggin; and their daughter, Russann Riggin (stillborn).

Beverly is survived by three sisters, Delores Van-Y, Alice Paull and Sandra Duchon; seven children, Ronald Riggin, Marlisa (late husband Doug) Schackel, Richard (Theresa) Riggin, Randy Riggin, Sabrina (Rob) Schoenberger, Debra (Russell) Roadruck, and Lorinda (Shane) Beckvold. She is also survived by her 15 grandchildren, her 20 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 1, at Hazen and Jaeger, 1306 N. Pines Road, Spokane Valley at 1 p.m. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Beverly’s life.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to Good Samaritan at 17121 E. Eighth Ave. Spokane Valley, WA 99016 or Millwood Heritage Adult Family Home at 9204 E Grace Ave. Spokane, WA 99206. The family would like to thank Beverly’s caregivers and Hospice workers for their care and support.