James-Rigas-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg

James Rigas

Aug 24, 1923 - Nov 12, 2017

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V-E Day Observance at the WWII Memorial ~ May 8, 2017

Jim's participation in the commemorations at the WWII Memorial will be greatly missed by many. He was a lively presence and a true inspiration to all of us. The Friends of the National World War II Memorial sends its condolences to the family of this great man.

The best member of the 82D ABN ASSOC WDC Chapter - You Will Be Missed

Jim - You Will be Missed by all your friends and troopers of YOUR 82nd Airborne Division Association, Washington DC Chapter. SIR - AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY!

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. Psalms 16:15*

Our prayers are with your family Jim you are forever loved and missed. we will always remember the amazing kind hearted man we will never forget you all our love Donna, Michael & Nicholas St Pete Beach Florida

May his memory be eternal...

On behalf of AHEPA Chapter 542, we offer our most deepest condolences for one of our AHEPA Brothers. He will always be remembered and honored.

Uncle Jim, not only a great man, but our "best man" in 2001--we have shared many great times with you and I love you as does your nephew Phillip and great niece Natalie. What a wonderful life and legacy.

Mrs. Mary Rigas and family,
I will always have a special spot in my heart for you and Mr. Rigas. I worked with both of you in Rosslyn, Va. Many years ago. May God Bless you always, May Mr. Rigas rest in peace.
Sherril Thomas

Obituary

James's Obituary

"JAMES G. RIGAS passed away on November 12, 2017 at his home with his beloved wife, Mary. “Jim,” was born in New York and volunteered in the U.S Army in December 1942. Graduated military intelligence school, Camp Ritchie, Maryland and was assigned to HQ 82nd Airborne, Division (G2) London, England. Qualified parachutist. Battles include Normandy Invasion, Nijmegen in the Netherlands, battle of the Bulge and central Europe all the way to Berlin. Served with the 82nd Airborne for six months in occupation of Berlin. After discharge December 1945 as a S/Sgt, attended Georgetown University where he received BS, FS and M.A. degrees. Joined U.S. Naval reserves in 1949 and served until 1974 attaining the rank of Commander as an Intelligence Officer. Civilian career included Army Security Agency, Naval Photographic Interpretation Center, State Department and Office of Naval Intelligence where in later years was a Navy Representative at C.I.A. HQ working on National Intelligence Estimates. Jim was married with two daughters, seven grandchildren, and eighteen great grandchildren. Lived in Leesburg, VA. In retirement. Family can join at the Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg, VA on November 16, 2017 between 6 – 8 for a viewing. The funeral service will be held at the Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church in Dulles, VA on November 17, 2017 at 1pm. Full military honors will be held on a later date in Arlington National Cemetery."

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