Mae J. Riggs

RIGGS, Mae J. passed September 27, 2024
Daughter of the late Gatson and Rosa Lee (Willis) Hendrix. Beloved wife of the late Darvin Riggs.
Visiting hours will be on FRIDAY, October 4th at Mann Rodgers Funeral Home, 44 Perkins Street, Jamaica Plain from 2pm – 6pm. Relatives and friends invited.
We celebrate the life and legacy of Mae Jane Hendrix Riggs Yeshurun, with her children, grandchildren, great grands, family, and friends, who remain here on this earth.
Born Mae Jane Hendrix, March 20, 1946, in Statesboro, Georgia. She was the second daughter, and the third child, to her parents, Gaston and Rosa Lee (Willis) Hendrix. Affectionately called Mom, grannie, gran-gran, Mother Mae, Ms Riggs, Ma Mae, Ma Riggs, Sis and Auntie, mom took her journey onward and upward, departing this earth early Friday morning, September 27, 2024, due to complications of her lungs and heart.
At the tender age of 15, she met and married, Darvin Riggs Jr. and conceived their first born, Stephen Randall Riggs, born February 26, 1961, who preceded her in death, July 2003. Darvin also preceded her in death.
Later followed in births were their beautiful daughters Kathy, Brenda, Lawanda, & Beverly (Edwin). As a family, we adopted a brother, Jerry Ssebugwawo, from Masaka, Uganda, whom we love as our own. Additionally, there are 3 god-siblings Barbara, Paula, and Shaun Smith, who were a permanent part of our family as we grew to 9 siblings! Mom's remaining siblings are Eugene Hendrix, Mary Lee Lindsey, and Bobby Hendrix, and their families.
Grandmother of Charles,Letari (aka Boston)(Ashley ) Marquis,Shala,Moneysha,Vic Jr (aka Magic on the beat)(Dionne) Daya Randa,Shakeilla Ricker,Jamire Ricker,Kevon Riggs,Joshua Riggs,JordanRiggs,Marsay Seymour,Krystian Seymour,Justin Smith,Shane Smith,Montanna Riggs,Israel Kakulu,Zion Namugenyi,Juda Ssenkumba,Stephen Yeshurun,Harrison Yeshurun,Riley Yeshurun.Emory Yeshurun, and Kayla Smith.
Great Grandmother of
All Washington Grands,MikaylaTrinity,Javon,Kalyan,Sekai,Zetyra,Dayvian,Maikel,Sariyah,Serenity,Jayce,Anaya,Azalea (aka Lea),Kwauntya,Levi,Emani,Milan Gia,Aniyah RickerJ,akarri Ricker,Prince Ricker,Vinson Ricker,J. Rashad, and our newest member Hazel Smith.
In the late 70's, our mom took a love interest in Soft ball at Washington Park with Wildfire Softball-Roxbury Dorchester League! She had a love of driving handicapped and special needs children VHS Transportation. She loved a great party! But when it came to hanging out with family and friends, a great Spades Game, with some great food, a 7-Up Pound Cake was always in order. An avid Red Socks Fan, and don't talk to her when she is playing BANGO (Bingo)!!!
As her children and family, we can write about her life. But, what is better than to allow others to share that dash (-) of her life that she lived, than you.
THE RICHNESS OF LIFE LIES IN GREAT MEMORIES!!!
Karen Terrell - Towson, Maryland
She was such a joyful person, so easy to be around.
Ray Strothers - Raleigh Durham
We will miss her smile, laughter, and most of all, her presence!!!
Andrew Solomon - Providence, RI
You will always be cherished in our hearts Momma Mae! Love always
Alvin Lovett - GA
What a great mother to raise her children to have such love and respect.
To love family and all of the siblings with that wide smile. Well done Mother
Deborah Day Bryant - North Carolina
One of the most kind hearted and straight to the point people I ever had the experience to meet.
Betsy Taylor - SLC, Utah
Your mom was a very special lady to so many of us. As I said, she had one of those personalities that kept us thinking she could live forever. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and she bore some very special children. Say Hi to Jesus for us, Sister Mae!
Latoya Joyce - Atlanta, GA
sending virtual hugs and lots of love to you and the rest of the family. Your mom started my love for 7up pound cake after just one road trip to GA.
Andrea Reid - Boston, MA
Sis Mae Riggs made everyone feel like family. She will be missed.
Cyntoria Grant - Dorchester, MA
Mama Mae, We were just planning the last season cookout and spades game. You told me to make everyone bring a dish.
Anne Corbin Fenell - Brockton, MA
You made us all feel equally special and loved! Rest in perfect peace Ma Riggs
Candace Harper - Providence, RI
Your Mom was always such a blessing to us.
THE RICHNESS OF LIFE LIES IN GREAT MEMORIES CONTINUES!!!
Robyn Reese - North Carolina
She was a delightful presence with an unforgettable energy. And that smile!!
Pastor/Brother Rick - Richard Sutton - Boston, MA
""Mother Mae, "" That's all that's really needed to be said, but.....
Mother Mae Riggs was the most popular woman in the church. If you didn't know her, you didn't know New Cov/Jubilee. She was always kindhearted, warm, joyful, and never without a smile. When you walk thru them doors Sunday morning, you know you was home and in the right place. You always felt better after leaving her presence. Most of you may have known her more than I, but I'm thankful for the experiences my family and I had with her. Family.....Please know, Momma Mae's life has been filled, not a day or time wasted. She has left a lasting imprint on all who is reading this right now. Songs have been sung, dinner has been served, and her wings have been earned...to move onto the "Most Rewarding and Eternal Chapter" one could ever aspire to reach! Be Blessed family, continue on in "Love and Peace" knowing that Momma Mae Is... "Alright Now." Shalom.
Mac Brodie - Atlanta, GA
She was sunshine to all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Trenay Solarin - Boston, MA
Your mother was so kind and very loving.
Murdena Mills - Mebane, North Carolina
She was one of a kind.
Broderick - St. Louis, Missouri
She was the life of the party. RIH.
Sharon Cornelius - Boston, MA
OMG, OMG THE TEMPLE WORSHIPERS WERE GOING TO GERMANY TO MINISTER. SHE BAKED ME A CAKE (brought it up to then New Covenant)TO BRING WITH ME TO GERMANY "THAT CAKE NEVER MADE IT OUT THE CHURCH DOORS".
Josie Joyce - cousin/sister - Boston, MA
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE A STRONGE BLACK WOMAN? ONE WHO FACED MANY BATTLES IN HER JOURNEY OF LIFE BUT, ALWAYS GOT BACK UP? LIVING A LIFE OF JOYFULNES, SETTING A EXAMPLE AS A MOM, MOTHER, GRANDMOTHER, AND FRIEND TO MANY. TO ME, AS A COUSIN, BEST FRIEND/SISTER, BY LETTING US KNOW TO KEEP THE FAITH, TRUSTING IN GOD THROUGH AND AFTER EACH STORM OF LIFE SHALL BECOME CALM TO SEE. THE SUNSHINE THROUGH THE PRAYERS OF LOVE FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HER BATTLE SCARS WAS ALWAYS SHARED WITH A SMILE ON HER FACE. THAT INCREDIBLE WOMAN WAS MRS. MAE J. RIGGS.
YES INDEED !! ALL ABOUT FAMILY SHARING AND CARING FOR ONE ANOTHER WITH LAUGHTER TO LIFT WHATEVER HEAVY LOADS YOU WERE CARRYING TO BECOME LIGHT.
Jacqueline Maikel - Claxton, GA
What a beautiful lady with a beautiful heart of gold.
LuWanda - Daughter - Boston, MA
The Golden Girl has gained her wings 9/27/2024. She was a Mother, Sister, Auntie, Grandmother My ACE and Friend to Many. My heart is broken and I will never be the same. Mae Riggs, If she has ever touched your heart, Given you a good laugh, outlasted you on the dance floor, beat you in spades, or done anything for you or blessed you with a smile and you feel compelled to share pictures and stories, please do. All who loved her she loved you more. I am a better person because of her. R.I.H Mommy. Too all who said Happy Birthday I am sorry. I updated my profile pic and it resurfaced this old Birthday Message. I know your heart was in the right place.I love you all
Lanee O'Neil - Boston, MA
Your mom was a special person. You know, I loved me some Mommy back in the day. She was funny, and touched everyone she met.
Latasha Gorman - Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Your mom was that awesome one. She will help me with the food pantry in Dorchester. It was good times!
Brittany Nickolas- Stoughton, MA
So sorry for your loss forever the life of the party!!
Charles Henderson - Grandson - Atlanta, GA
I'm going to miss hearing you call my name "Charlie!" you'd yell out to get my attention with the most countriest accent and raspy voice lol. Always smiling but could get serious at the drop of a dime. Love you lil lady!
Pearl Graham - Boston, MA
She was such a beautiful soul. I will share this with my son, Hashim who she called her own. They acted together in plays at Jubilee Boston.
Felicia Brown - Baltimore, Maryland
You know me and your Mom go way back! Wildfire Softball-Roxbury Dorchester League. Strong no nonsense women. She is at peace, joyful and whole.
Michelle Botus - Boston, MA
Mama Mae was one of a kind. I loved her so much and she will be missed.
Cheryl Eley Spriggs - Boston, MA
I will truly miss Ma Mae and her spirit of love and laughter
Teresa Jones Carter - Boston, MA
How I loved your mom so encouraging and supportive. I'm thankful for her life and how she touched so many people. Blessings of God's comfort, love and peace to you all as you celebrate her life and legacy.
Valerie Briggs - Boston, MA
My condolences, your family were the main ones who made me feel welcome in Boston. Sis Mae is a beautiful soul eternally.
Pearl Graham - Providence, RI
She was such a beautiful soul and an amazing Actress in the Jubilee plays in Boston. My/our son, Hashim, really adored her and she adored him. We will always remember her warmth and grace.
Pamela Corbin-Riddick - Waterbury, Connecticut
Ma Riggs is a treasure, and we are all blessed to have had her as part of our lives. FLY HIGH, BELOVED...FLY HIGH!!!
Karen Dottin Ricketts - Milton, MA
Wow! She holds a special place in our hearts because she took care of our Josh!

The year of 1946, GOD planned for some extraordinary things to happen!
Not only our mom, Mae Riggs, but
The Baby Boom began, 1946 to 1964!
The United Nations held its first meeting
President Harry Truman established the Committee on Civil Rights to address the brutal attacks on Black World War II veterans.
The Supreme Court ruled that segregation on interstate bus travel was unconstitutional. (Irene Morgan story)
The nation of Transjordan which later became Jordan, was formed.
The movie, "It's A Wonderful Life", premiered.
The design of the 2-piece bathing suit.
The first calendar year after World War II. It was a Tuesday.
The Bank of England was nationalized.
The first Black man broke the barrier with NFL Football. Kenny Washington was the first Black player in 13 years.
Additionally, added to the NFL roster in 1946 was Woody Strode, Marion Motley, and Bill Willis as the first Black men to play in the NFL.
The Columbia, Tennessee Race Riot (Veterans & Civilian's) (Thurgood Marshall story)
Tupperware was introduced to the world!
Jackie Robinson signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers and was sent to the Montreal farm team, making his debut at Ebbetts Field 1947 as the first Black in the Major Leagues.
Charles Spurgeon Johnson was appointed as the first Black President of Fisk University. He also became the first Black President of the Southern Sociological Society.
1946 Top music and artists:
Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!
Miles Davis
Louis Jordan Let the good times role
Ella Fitzgerald I love you for sentimental reasons
Duke Ellington
The Dixie Hummingbirds Amazing Grace
Dizzy Gillespie
Louis Armstrong Flee as a bird
Nat King Cole Everyone is saying Hello again
Lionel Hampton Hey Ba Ba are Bob
After Party TBA.
Please wear bright and vibrant colors to celebrate her brightness!
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