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Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Clyde Riggs Obituary

Clyde Armstrong Riggs was born Nov. 30, 1934, in Oklahoma City and died in his hometown July 18, 2010, as a result of a bicycle accident. He was 75 years old. Born in the Great Depression, raised mostly by a single mother, Clyde Riggs was a self made man who created his own company from scratch in his early 20s. For more than a half-century, starting in 1958, Clyde was a builder, developer and contractor who did business across the country but always preferred doing it in Oklahoma, in the city and state he loved. Many Oklahomans knew him from the black construction trailers bearing the name of his company, Clyde Riggs Construction, on job sites for office buildings, apartments and even restaurants. Through the years he and his employees did hundreds of projects, on jobs large and small, including work for Devon Energy, Chesapeake Energy and some of Oklahoma City's top physicians. At the time of his death, he remained the principal owner of his company, and had planned to work full time for at least another five years. Like many successful businessmen, he loved putting together business deals, and was working on new ones in Oklahoma and outside the state in recent weeks. Through it all he relied on expertise and relationships built up over 52 years to navigate the economic ups and downs of the construction industry. His interests outside work were fun and wide ranging. He enjoyed fast things; for example, he was among the first to introduce go-karts to Oklahoma City in the early 1960s and also raced motorcycles when he was young. For the better part of two decades, he and friends attended the annual Indianapolis 500 race, where he knew many of the drivers and their sponsors. In 1979, he participated in the Cannonball Sea-to-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash, made famous through a popular movie starring Burt Reynolds. Clyde and his two partners drove a Cadillac from Connecticut to California in under 37 hours, averaging 82 mph at a time when the speed limit was 55 mph. His Cannonball team finished seventh out of 45 teams. Snow skiing was another passion, and he skied some of the best slopes in the western United States even into his 70s. Most of all, he loved to ride bicycles, particularly with friends. Clyde took cycling trips to western Europe and to wine country in California, but he was most at home on the roadways of central Oklahoma. Through the years he met many friends through recreational cycling, and was a staple at cycling events, including one in Norman on the last weekend of his life. Clyde was a fan of OU men's basketball, and frequently accompanied friends to out of town games and tournaments to cheer on the Sooners. And he loved to vacation with family and friends, both in the United States and overseas. He was active in various charities; one of his favorites was Rebuilding Together, formerly known as Christmas in April. In recent weeks he had been working with Special Care, a facility for children with special needs, to contribute to a proposed expansion and help build it. But his preferred method of sharing his time and resources was done in quiet ways, often anonymously. He was a 1952 graduate of Classen High School and attended Oklahoma City University. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lewis; his father, Clyde Riggs; and his brother, Alex Riggstokauf, the former Jimmy Riggs. Survivors are his longtime companion, Sarah Crandall, of Oklahoma City; a daughter, Rayma Jones and her husband, David Miller, of Edmond; two sons, Derek Riggs and his partner, Kim Joyner, of Houston, Texas; and Haden Riggs and Hanna Stice, of Oklahoma City; two granddaughters, Elizabeth Cannon and her husband, Cameron, of Denver, Colo.; and Susanne Kramer and her husband, Chris, currently in the Peace Corps in Swaziland; a sister, Carole Kelley and her husband, Ed, of Oklahoma City; two nephews, John Kelley and his wife, Rachel, and Mike Kelley and his fiancee, Kelly Ginter, all of Washington, D.C., and a niece, Maureen Kelley and her fiance, Antoine LeBlanc, both of Yukon. A memorial service to celebrate the life of an extraordinary man, who passed from this life doing something he loved, will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home, 14624 N May. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Special Care Inc., 12201 N Western, Oklahoma City, OK 73114.

Published by Oklahoman from Jul. 20 to Jul. 21, 2010.
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i only worked for clyde for a few years before he passed on but he will always have a place in my heart. he left his mark on the world and will be missed. my respects carl smith

February 1, 2013

I am deeply saddened by the news of Clyde's death. I hadn't talked to him for a while and was concerned when I didn't receive a Christmas card from him this past Christmas. My prayers go out to all of his family and friends. He was a wonderful person. We will all miss him very much!!!

Shirley DuPree

January 19, 2011

Clyde Riggs, a one of a kind man! He was the kindest and most faithful friend a person could ever have. I loved and adored him for 35 years. My condolences go out to his three precious children and his grandchildren. He is so loved and missed by all who knew him. It is sad to lose such a great friend. Rest in peace, sweet Clyde. J Rush OKC, Oklahoma

September 6, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

August 3, 2010

Rayma, Derek & Hayden

I am saddened to recently learn the loss of your father. Although I never had the opportunity of meeting him, I can see what a remarkable man he was & the legacy he leaves today. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Many years have passed since we've spoken or seen one another. To refresh our past, my father Gene Bouse dated your mother for a few years & us kids played together in our earlier years. My father passed unexpectantly & the recovery process still bears pain after many years. I am thinking of you.

Leigh Bouse-Clark

July 29, 2010

I first worked with Clyde's son back in the 70's at a place named Kaiser's Ice cream. Then in the late 80's, I found myself working for Clyde, along side a very loyal employee, Dee-Dee Bensinger. I can only imagine the grief you must feel. I still own the long dress coat, Clyde had given to me many years ago. That was a cold winter! His giving nature will always be remembered. My prayers go to all the employees and family members affected by this early and tragic loss.

Toni Moss/Hoskins

July 27, 2010

Rayma,Derek and Hayden
Peggy and I were saddened to hear of Clyde's death, but we are glad to hear all the good things that he has done and good memories that friends have of him. We hope for you and the girls that you will be encouraged.Love Roger &Peggy Lindsey, Cabool, Mo.

July 26, 2010

To Rayma, Derek, and Hayden
You all are in my thoughts and prayers with the loss of your father. From the little girl you all had to watch growing up. Be strong. Take Care. Derek, my father sends his condolences as well.

Jeanna Jones-Washington

July 25, 2010

I was sadden to hear of the death of one of my favorite people and also one of my favorite customers. My name is Karla Harrington and I am a teller at UMB bank in Penn Square. I never met a more positive, friendly and likeable individual than Clyde Riggs. He was always willing to see the positive side of everything. He was truly an impressive person. My deepest sympathy to the family on his untimely death.

Karla Harrington

July 23, 2010

Rayma, Derek, and Hayden,
So sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and will continue to pray for strength in the days to come. Miss you guys..

Yvonne Giles

July 23, 2010

I worked for Clyde back in the mid-80's and was sad to leave my job but I wanted to move to California. We stayed lightly in touch over the years, mainly through our Christmas cards. His passing is such a loss and I will miss him dearly.

Sheila (Cokeley) Wirick

July 22, 2010

Hayden and derek, our deepest condolences.. Rob and Lori harrison

July 22, 2010

Clyde was truly someone you remembered when you met him. He will be missed by so many because he touched so many in a way that they could not forget him. So many parties he would arrive in his black tux with black Italian croc loafers and no socks and with a beautiful women on his arm. He was a man men admired and women loved. He was generous far beyond what people know. We will miss him

Bob & Dani Colston

July 22, 2010

Rayma, Derek and Hayden

My deepest condolences on the loss of your father.

Tracey Barkley

July 22, 2010

Clyde Riggs was man who will be greatly missed by this Community. His love of life was tremendous and the people with whom he shared life will be enriched forever. Mark H.

July 22, 2010

Derek,
I never met your dad. But I know you and we spoke of your dad. I just want you to know I have enjoyed knowing him through you! Also reading about him. He sounds like a very busy man and I am sure he will continue to be just that a very busy man through spirit.
Misty Bashara

misty bashara

July 22, 2010

I will always appreciate the kindness that Clyde extended to our family, particularly my mother, Dicie Griffy.

ted griffy

July 22, 2010

I first met Clyde in the mid 70's when he was one of our customers in the Real Estate Department at Liberty National Bank (now Chase Bank). He became an immediate lifelong friend. Clyde lived his life to the fullest and he will be greatly missed. My husband, Rick, and I will miss receiving his Christmas cards with the crazy picture revealing what adventure he had been up to that year. With love and prayers, Cindy Mason

July 21, 2010

I will miss your gentle and giving spirit. I will always remember you as a "Sole Man," once again, giving to the community. Our thoughts will be with your family and friends. Debbie Yoeckel, Edmond, OK

Debbie Yoeckel

July 21, 2010

Clyde was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor. He will remain in our thoughts and prayers forever.

William Price

July 21, 2010

I met Clyde fifty years ago or more, my family and I were neighbors of his mom(Mrs.Lewis)and Carole, Carole & I grew up together on 27th.& Lee & we would go over to Clyde's house,the two of us and babysit for Rayma & Derek! Clyde was always very nice to me as a young kid & I never forgot him and his family. My mom & his mom were good friends & stayed in touch by phone until Mary passed away. My thoughts & prayers are with you Carole & with your family. Much Love.

Marilyn (Cox) Newman

July 21, 2010

I will so miss our conversations on life and the fun we we've had living it. You will be missed by so many....

Hershel

Hershel Lamirand

July 20, 2010

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. I worked for Clyde for 7 years. He was a very generous man that will truely be missed.

Mike Hodges and family

July 20, 2010

Edna Stinnett

July 20, 2010

Wonderful person! Clyde lived life fully and with great enthusiasm; he died doing one of the many things he loved. RIP my friend!

Steve Bruno

July 20, 2010

Clyde was such a great guy. I am proud to have known him. My condolences to his family.

Chris Kavanaugh

July 20, 2010

So sorry for your loss. My son Brad Rodgers worked for Clyde many years and really enjoyed him as a boss and friend. Clyde also attended Brad's motocross races several times. He was a really great person that will be dearly missed.
Brad Rodgers and family

July 20, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with Clyde's family at this sad time.

Linda McClary

July 20, 2010

Clyde was a 'wonderful person' and losing him is a great loss for all of us. I am deeply saddened and have many fond memories of Clyde from racing to biking.
My heart goes out to his children, Haden, Derek, and Rayma even though I have not seen you for years, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Clyde will be remembered especially at Christmas when we all anticipate his unique card each year. He will not be forgotten, and he will be missed.
I am so sorry for your loss, with sincerest sympathy, annee miller

anneene miller gustafson

July 20, 2010

Lots of good memories of Mr. Riggs and family. To Rayma, Derek, Hayden and all your family, I am sorry for your loss.

Elise (Fuller) Rinta

July 20, 2010

I have known Clyde from school, cars, gokarts and as a friend
will always remember the 1960 trip to gokart factory in Azuza CA

Alan Brooking

July 20, 2010

Rayma, Derek and Haden: Your Dad was my R.A. Director at First Baptist, and from that time forward, I always thought he was one of the "coolest" guys I ever knew. With Love, Andy Potter, Oklahoma City.

July 20, 2010

My prayers are with Clyde's family and friends. My husband Dennis Morgan worked for Selby's Drywall who did work for Clyde Riggs. Clyde's house was the last thing my husband worked on before he passed away. Clyde made time for visits to Dennis during his first surgery and through the 2 years after during his fight against Cancer. Dennis spoke highly of him as a friend.

Darlene Morgan

July 20, 2010

We are saddened to hear of your loss, Haden. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Tom & Glenda Anderson

July 20, 2010

Rayma, Liz, and Sus
I am so sorry for your loss. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Love you girls.

Staci Hancock

July 20, 2010

He always made you feel as if you were one of his closest friends.

Jim Story

July 20, 2010

THIS IS S0 SAD TO HEAR! HE WAS A GREAT MAN ! HE WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS!

Roberta Hodge

July 20, 2010

My father, Earl Kissick, worked for Clyde for many years. Our family appreciated Clyde and all he did for dad. We are so sorry for your loss.Our thoughts are with you.

Suzanne McGuire

July 19, 2010

The world has lost a great person in Clyde. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

Chris Hohne

July 19, 2010

I met Clyde through my dear friend, Barb Butner. She rode with him often and would share so many stories about their adventures. The few times I was around him--he was always such a gentleman. I know he will be missed by many...

Penny Voss

July 19, 2010

Shocked, broken hearted, does not cover the loss of Clyde.
He was an inspiration to all of us. An example of philanthropy, and graciousness. I had the honor to serve on the Ballet board with him, one of the MANY organizations that Clyde either belonged to or supported. Individuals like him are a gift to their communities and all those fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to work or play with him! What a huge loss for us all. I will miss his warm smile and those hilarious Christmas cards!
You have made heaven an even better place.
Phil Clayton

PHILLIP CLAYTON

July 19, 2010

Clyde was a wonderful man and a leader in our community. He will be missed by many. My prayers are with his family.

Tammy McCuen

July 19, 2010

So many great memories. Go karts, Formula Ford, Indy and trips to Monaco. We have lost a good friend. Godspeed Clyde.

Kent & DeDe Maxwell

July 19, 2010

I have known Clyde since I was 12 years old. He was a mentor and a good friend. I will miss him deeply. Bon Voyage Clyde!

Lyle Schwedland

July 19, 2010

I am deeply sorry for your loss.

Lisa Thompson

July 19, 2010

Clyde was such a joy to know. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Rayma, Derek and Haden, as well as other family and friends. Crazy Clyde, know how much you are loved and will be missed.

Sheila Burba

July 19, 2010

Clyde was an awesome guy who was very generous to Harding Charter Prep HS. One could see how much he loved his sister Carole - you could see it in his eyes and smile as they interacted with one another - He was a Good Man!

Richard Caram

July 19, 2010

Clyde was such a nice man. I'm sorry for his family.

Bill Robberson

July 19, 2010

I have know Clyde for close to 50 years. He was always a good friend and an inspration to all who knew him. He will be missed and always remembered.

Steve Fauks

July 19, 2010

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr Riggs. Especially Derek.

Susan Penney

July 19, 2010

Clyde has done business with my Dad, Jim Burdt for years. We have always enjoyed his hilarious Christmas cards and stories of his many travels. Blessings to the family, he was a great man.

July 19, 2010

Clyde's zest for life was amazing and inspriational. A true testament to living life to its fullest. His smile would easily light up a room and his hugs were sincere. I was blessed to know him. I imagine Clyde slid into heaven and exclaimed “WOW! What a ride!” He will be greatly missed yet forever remembered.

Shirley Johnson

July 19, 2010

Clyde was one of the nicest men I have ever met. I used to come to his office to do audits back in the early 80's and he was always so nice and friendly. Many years later when I would see him at Lyric or recently at Thunder games we would always talk and he would remember those days. His great sense of humor and the funny Christmas cards will definately be missed. Another person taken way too early. My sincere condolences to his family.

KAREN GREGORY

July 19, 2010

He will be missed. He indeed loved helping children as he gave generously to our new gymnasium. Without Chad Richison and Mr. Riggs, it wouldn't have been possible. Don West, Stanley Hupfeld Academy (formerly Western Village Academy).

July 19, 2010

I worked for Clyde from 1999 to 2002. He was a very generous man in our community. He will be greatly missed by many people. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
Tami Collins Oklahoma City

July 19, 2010

I worked for Clyde in 1999 to 2002. He was a generous man for the community. I know he will be greatly missed by many people. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.

July 19, 2010

my dear friend....a treasure to so many.....my heart is broken...

Kay Sweeney

July 19, 2010

Hanna Stice

July 19, 2010

A generous man that will truly be missed.

Clint Ellis

July 19, 2010

my prayers are with the family in this sad time.

lisa Jorgensen

July 19, 2010

he was a very nice human being

jimmy mueller

July 19, 2010

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