Donna M. Riggs

07/11/1949 - 12/01/2025

Donna Mary (Desmarais) Riggs passed away at home on December 1, 2025, in Ypsilanti, Michigan. She was born on July 11, 1949, to John and Jule Desmarais in Jersey City, New Jersey.
A 1967 high school graduate of the Academy of Mt. St. Vincent in Tuxedo Park, New York, Donna went on to study psychology at Michigan State University before earning her nursing degree from Eastern Michigan University in 1984. She began her nursing career at Mott Children's Hospital, later joining the Holden NICU team at Michigan Medicine, where her compassionate presence made her a beloved nurse and colleague. Donna also took part in many Survival Flight missions, an experience she had great pride from. She retired from Michigan Medicine after 30 years in pediatric and neonatal NICU care.
Donna married Ronald C. Riggs in 1969, and they shared 26 years together, raising two daughters, Rachel and Erin.
Among her fondest memories were a 2001 trip to the United Kingdom, where she explored London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, as well as a joyful celebration in Cancun for her 60th birthday. A devoted cat person, Donna adored her feline companions over the years, including "Furry", and later "Woody" and "Gus", whom provided so much comfort to her after the passing of her brother.
Donna will be remembered for her kindness, funny sense of humor, and the deep care she offered to everyone around her. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, John. She is survived by her daughters, Rachel (Scott Winston) Riggs and Erin Riggs, as well as her beloved furbaby Woody, who has recently been welcomed into a new, loving home.
Her family extends heartfelt thanks to Arbor Hospice; her dear friend, Robin; neighbor, Sandy, and the many people and services who supported Donna in recent years.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Huron Valley Humane Society, honoring Donna's lifelong love of animals.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at Nie Funeral Home, 2400 Carpenter Rd., Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 starting at 12pm noon, with gathering beforehand at 11am.