Eileen Riggs deCastro

Eileen Riggs deCastro
June 9, 1955 – April 13, 2024
My mother transitioned from this world into the loving embrace of Heaven, mirroring the way she lived her remarkable life-with courage, dignity, and grace.
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Robert and Marilyn Riggs, Mom's life journey spanned 68 vibrant years, taking her to 7 continents, and over 150 countries.
It was a rich tapestry woven of global experiences. Mom served as caretaker on the grounds of an Italian villa, helped show champion Afghan hounds on the European dog circuit, ran a weaving school in Guatemala and in Germany, taught literacy skills to enlisted U.S. soldiers.
She eventually returned to the U.S. and began working in marketing for Data General Corporation. It didn't take her long to figure out that the real money was in corporate sales. Mom quickly became one of the company's top producers.
In 1992, marriage to her beloved Edson deCastro marked a new chapter filled with the joy of raising a family. Their home became a sanctuary with legendary dinner parties full of great people, food, music, and lively conversation peppered with some unforgettable stories about Mom's worldwide escapades.
My Mom was a community activist and civic leader whether at home in Boylston, at her second home in New Mexico or her snowbird spot in Florida. She served on national and local non-profit boards and chaired numerous successful fundraising events.
Her passion for travel and appetite for new challenges never waned. Despite declining health, Mom's zest for life remained undiminished even during the most challenging times.
She is survived by her husband Edson deCastro, her two sons David R. and Thomas deCastro, her sister, Debora Riggs Grillot, and a host of family and friends whose lives were enriched by her presence. While she may not be with us anymore, her indomitable spirit and wisdom live on, reminding us to savor life's moments with passion and courage. I can just hear Mom saying, "Moderation is for monks. Take big bites."
Our family wishes to thank the caregivers at The Mariner Marblehead and Kaplan Family Hospice House who provided loving support and compassionate care during Mom's final days.
Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours at the Chiampa Funeral Home, 5 Church Road, On the Common, Shrewsbury Center, on Thursday, May 23, 2024, from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Funeral Service honoring Eileen will follow. Interment will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery, Boylston immediately following the service.
In Lieu of flowers, donations in Eileen's honor may be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester
https://www.bgcworcester.org/support-our-club/donate or Fruitlands Museum https://thetrustees.org/place/fruitlands-museum