Shirley Jean Riggens-Howard

Heavenly Beginnings: The Birth of an Angel

Shirley Jean Riggens-Howard was born on August 25, 1951, to the late Charlie and Dorothy Riggens in the small town of Charleston, Missouri. Shirley, a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and grandmother, was called home to the arms of the angels on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Stillwater Hospice Center.

A Love Eternal: A Spiritual Bond

Shirley was the cherished member of a large family, being one of 15 siblings. Her journey through life began with a graduation from Charleston High School, setting in motion a life filled with love, dedication, and compassionate service.  On June 25, 1971, Shirley married her soulmate, Larry Howard. Their 54-year union was not only a testament to love, but a testament to partnership, as they walked through life, their shared faith lifting them like wings.  Together, they raised three wonderful children: two sons, Keith L. Howard and Craigg L. Howard, and a daughter, Nicole S. Howard-Milligan.  Shirley, much like a guardian angel’s embrace, made sure their home was filled with warmth, laughter, and an abundance of love.

Guardian of Service: Angel in Service

Shirley dedicated 25 years of her career to Flashfold Carton, Inc., illustrating a relentless work ethic that mirrored her angelic dedication to service. Later, her journey continued at Ivy Tech Community College, where she enrolled in a social work program.  She pursued her passion for helping others, forever seeking to uplift those in need, much like the angels she adored.

Faithful Shepherd: Guardian of Faith

Shirley's faith and service were central to her life. She was a devoted and active member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church for more than 37 years.  Shirley served on the Usher Board, where her kindness and attention to detail ensured that every funeral was a celebration of life and remembrance, a true reflection of the angelic comfort she so often provided to others in their times of sorrow.  Her compassion and care for those in mourning were a testament to the angelic light that she carried.  She was deeply committed to supporting her church community.  Her dedication to her faith was evident as she encouraged all whom she encountered to keep God first in their lives.

Shirley will be remembered not only for her loving nature but also for her spunkiness and vibrant spirit. She found joy in volunteering at her church and relished spending time with her family and friends, whether indulging in a good shopping trip or simply enjoying shared moments of laughter.

The Return to the Heavens: Cherished Wings

Shirley leaves behind her devoted husband, Larry Howard; sons, Keith L. Howard and Craigg L. Howard; daughter, Nicole S. (Kelvin) Howard-Milligan. She is also survived by her treasured grandchildren, Minique Govan-Taylor, Cameryn Howard, Kyla Howard, Jabreen Howard Sr., LeAndra Milligan, and Aniyah Milligan, along with her great-grandchildren, Kiaya Taylor and Jabreen Howard Jr. She is remembered as a bonus grandmother to Jurnee Brunson, Jh’Ream Walker, and Denise Brunson, and a god-grandson, Jaheim Jackson.

Shirley is also survived by her beloved siblings, Charles (Mae) Riggens, Ronnie (Sharon) Riggens, Ardest (Reatta) Riggens, George (Valerie) Riggens, Finney (Martha) Riggens, Louis (Vicki) Riggens, Donnell Riggens, Gloria Holmes, Pat (Owen) Terry, and Barbara Cleaves; sisters-in-law, Hazel Caldwell, Bernice Howard, Joann Davis, Cleretta 

Phillips; brothers-in-law, Fletcher (Barbara) Howard, Graylin Howard, James Branigan, as well as bonus sisters Emma Williams, Catherine Upshaw, and Cynthia Upshaw, and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Arms Wide Open: Angels in Her Embrace

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; Charlie and Dorothy Riggens; siblings, Robert Riggens, Duane Riggens, and James Holmes; and daughter-in-law, Lori Yvette Howard.

A Legacy of Light: The Angel Living On

As we gather to celebrate Shirley’s life, may we remember the angelic laughter she gifted us, her unwavering love, and her selfless spirit.  Shirley Jean Riggens-Howard has now become one of God's angels, forever watching over her family and friends.  Her legacy of love, compassion, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.  She will remain in our hearts, a shining beacon of grace and kindness until we meet again, our guardian angel.

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