Gwendolyn Ann Rigby

Gwendolyn Ann Rigby; 98; of Valhalla, New York, passed away peacefully in her home on March 12, 2026.

Gwen was born in Mt. Vernon, NY to Mabel V. (nee LeHart) and Robert L. Williams on April 20, 1927. She was baptized at the First Method Church and was a member of their youth group and choir. Her experiences at First ME were so important in her upbringing and led to her lifetime commitment to her faith.

As a teen, Gwen was a member of the Danny Harrington dance group. She performed at the Glen Island Casino and many other local venues. It wouldn't take much to get her to show off her tap dancing skills!

Gwen attended Mount Vernon schools and graduated from A.B. Davis High School in 1946.

On November 4, 1950 she married the love of her life William Rigby. Her Bill predeceased her in 1997. Together they raised four children; David (deceased, 2003), Keith, Beth, and Todd. Gwen and Bill were blessed with two adored grandchildren; Chris (Gabriella) and Katie (Vito) and a beautiful great-grand-daughter (Isabella).

Family was everything to Gwen. Together with Bill, they provided a wonderful home for their children. Summers in East Hampton and Amagansett, NY. Countless cookout's at Albert's Landing with aunt's, uncle's, and cousins. Beach day's with picnic lunches. Homemade Halloween costumes and holiday's filled with traditions.

Gwen prepared legendary macaroni and cheese casseroles, potato salad, pot roasts, chocolate chip cookies, gritty fudge icing for Dad, and decadent rice pudding. She made sure that warm chocolate tapioca pudding was waiting for us when we got home from school. She was special.

Gwen never drove. She walked us everywhere! Many times with our silly cat Tiger following behind. We were firmly told "Don't look back at him. Don't encourage him!" Tiger would later appear out of the woods when we returned home. He'd gotten her message.

In later life she cared for her grandchildren and welcomed their friends into her home. There was always unconditional love and support. Firm advice when we needed it and her warm touch. Thank you mom, we will so miss you.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 21. 2026 from 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Hawthorne Funeral Home.

Reverend Kevan Hitch will be leading a prayer service during the visitation starting at 4:00 PM

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association .