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Joyce Riggins Obituary

Joyce Marie Riggins (nee Chandik)

PORTAGE/WHITING, IN - Joyce Marie Riggins (nee Chandik), age 80, of Portage and Whiting, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on April 2, 2020. She is survived by her two daughters: Jeannine (Bert) Ramirez, Geraldine (Jeff) Zygowicz; one son, James Michael Riggins; five grandchildren: Ashley and Dakota Reeves, Donald (Kelly) Zygowicz, Zachary and Krysta Zygowicz; seven great grandchildren: Jordan, Layla, Bodhi, Aubriana, Brielle, Bryce and Blake. She also leaves behind her beloved sister Rosemary (John) Kokenis, her niece Natalie Bajda and family, Jim and Jan Riggins and her dear friend, James Alford. She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Chandik and her sister, Carol Nastav.

Joyce loved life, people and most of all her family which was everything to her. She loved spending time with them, especially holidays, taught them the true meaning of love and worried and prayed for them endlessly. She was always there for everyone..no matter what.

Joyce had a contagious smile for everyone she came across. She loved to sing, dance, play cards, dice and board games and going to the casino. She also enjoyed reading and had a huge collection of movies she loved to watch especially her favorite...Harry Potter.

Joyce had a strong faith in God and the Virgin Mary and did her best to live her life through that faith. She would always say, "God bless you and keep you safe!". Joyce will be missed forever but will always be remembered as an AMAZING woman, mom, grandma, great grandma(Nana), sister, aunt and friend to all who knew and loved her. A special thanks to Harbor Light Hospice of Crown Point for their outstanding care and support of Joyce and her family who doesn't know what they would have gotten through this without them!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Times on Apr. 6, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
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Cheech Hruskocy

April 26, 2020

Jim(Yanik boy),Jeannine and Gerry ,Mrs Riggins was such a fun , kind and nice lady.I am so sorry for your loss.She was one of my moms favorite whiting catering ladies.

Sean Hart

April 11, 2020

A Wonderful person, so much fun to be around. I remember the Sunday picnics at Standard Diamonds , God's Love and Grace!

Tom Evanich

April 10, 2020

Jeannine, Gerry, Jimmy, Natalie, Rosemary and John,
When I heard about Joyce passing away, it immediately brought back fond memories growing up on Schrage Ave.
By deepest sympathies.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Tom Evanich

Jean Thibault

April 7, 2020

All my memories of my friend Bea as I called her, will always be special. She was my Forever Friend. Payers to all her loving Family. Jeannie

Gloria Stapleton

April 7, 2020

Dear Gerri, Jeanine and Jimmy,
So sorry to hear about your MOM. She was such an amazing and beautiful person. We had lots of good times when we lived in Whiting. Stay strong and remember that smile of hers. May God bless your family at this trying time.

Amanda Smith

April 6, 2020

I have so many memories of her from living next door for most of my childhood. My sister and I were friends with a few of the grandkids so we spent a lot of time in her house and yard. Her laugh was infectious too! She'll be missed! Prayers to the entire family!

Angie Haniford

April 6, 2020

Our prayers are with the family. The legacy Joyce has left behind is strong and full of grace. May you all find healing amongst each other in this time.

Sharon Longoria

April 6, 2020

My heart and deepest sympathies goes out to Joyce's family. I have many memories,buy most of all I will remember her laughter and her gracious love for people of all kinds. She was a special lady who will truly be missed.

Jim

April 6, 2020

My eyes are burning and my heart hurts. We had many great times together as a family. I thank Jeannlne and her family for taking such good care of Joyce, both before and after her illness. Rest In Peace.

Joey Bain

April 6, 2020

Such an amazing lady and a life to be celebrated! Thoughts are with the family

Amanda yakel

April 6, 2020

She was always so positive and full of life. She brought laughter and joy to many. Many lives have forever changed and many were blessed ton have known her.

Glenn & Laura Wright

April 6, 2020

Please accept our deepest sympathies.

Mrs. Thelma Wright

April 6, 2020

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Showing 1 - 13 of 13 results

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