Dr. Ernest Duward Riggsby

Ernest Duward Riggsby September 20, 2006 COLUMBUS, GA— Dr. Ernest Duward Riggsby, 81, died September 20, 2006 at his residence in Columbus, GA. Dr. Ernest Riggsby, retired Professor at Columbus State University, Troy State University, and visiting professor at Auburn University and George Peabody College, Florida Tech, and University of Puerto Rico joined the greatest scientist, poets, writers, and artists he so admired. As a graduate of Tennessee Tech, and George Peabody College, Dr. Riggsby spent a lifetime as a science educator with special interest in aerospace education. As a member of the Crown Circle of the National Aviation and Space Education Organization, he was honored for his contributions to the field of aerospace education through his direction of teacher workshops, author of over 400 publications, and diverse professional memberships. Other recognitions included: charter member of Chattahoochee Valley Georgia Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa, Hall of Honor of the American Aerospace Association, Ford Scholar, and Kettering Fellow. Bibliographic listings appear in Who's Who in American Education, Who's Who in America, Leaders in American Science, and others. Prior to entering the service, he worked for the Manhattan Project. During his service in the Air Force, Colonel Riggsby enjoyed assignments in the Pacific Rim, with courier duties, and as a weather officer in WWII. Though not a pilot, he enjoyed science and flying experiences related to aviation, which led to his professional interest for educational purposes. For over 45 years he was associated with Civil Air Patrol and its educational efforts. From these experiences he developed a love of travel and exploration of the world and its cultures. His life enriched that of his family, which included his wife Dutchie; daughter Lyn and husband Oscar Gonzales; grandson, Eli; sister Peggy, (Doug) Thompson; sisters in law, Pat (Bill) Connell, and Debbie (Rob) Starr; aunt in law, Ann Sellers; nieces, nephews, cousins, god children, Chris and Mark Carlisle, and a host of friends and students, all of whom will miss his dry wit and extensive knowledge. A true scholar and a gentleman, Dr. Riggsby is preceded in death by his mother, Anna Pearl Durham; father, James Thomas Riggsby, and god mother, Faye Turner. The family will receive friends on Friday, September 22, 2006 from 5 until 7 p.m. at McMullen Funeral Home, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA. In lieu of flowers, please make your contributions to Columbus Hospice, 7020 Moon Road, Columbus, GA. 31909 or your favorite scholarship fund. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.mcmullenfuneralhome.com