Marcella Ann Hartzler Riggs

Marcella Ann Hartzler Riggs, age 76, of Wooster, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at Wooster Community Hospital, following a period of declining health. She was surrounded by her loving family in her final moments.
Marcella was born on August 6, 1949, in Massillon, Ohio, to the late John and Mildred (Morgan) Schromen. She graduated from Orrville High School and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Education from Kent State University, later completing a Master's degree from the University of Rio Grande. On August 21, 2015, she married friend of 57 years, James Michael Riggs at St. Genevieve Catholic Church, and together they shared a loving and devoted marriage. James survives.
She dedicated her career to teaching elementary education, retiring from Lincoln Way Elementary School. Marcella was deeply passionate about her work and was known for creating a classroom filled with creativity, joy, and a love of learning. Her students and colleagues alike remember her for her kindness and the lasting impact she made in their lives.
An artist at heart, Marcella found joy in painting, pottery, crochet, and poetry. Her creative spirit shone through everything she did and brought beauty to those around her. Above all, she cherished her family and friends and the time spent with them.
Surviving are her husband, James Michael Riggs of Wooster; daughter, Emily Morgan Hartzler of Wooster; son, John Cody (Sharlene) Riggs of Spanaway, Washington; three sisters, Joan (Mike) Fath of Burton, Patricia (Dave Brown) Schromen of Port Angeles, Washington, and Kathleen (David) Moor of Corning; three grandchildren, Alice Morgan Gunn, Keano (Kiaya) Riggs, and Jordan Riggs; two great-grandchildren, Tatum and Marie Riggs; three brothers-in-law, James (Patricia) Hartzler and Jeffrey (Vicky) Hartzler, both of Wooster, and Joseph Hartzler of Weilersville; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband of 33 years, John Charles Hartzler; brothers, John Morgan Schromen and Joseph James Schromen; and sisters, Nancy Theige, Rita Hartmann, and Mary Hartzell.
Friends may call on Friday, November 14, 2025 at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 541 Spring Street, Orrville, from 10:00 am to 10:45 am.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Agnes Catholic Church, with Fr. Ronald Turek officiating. Burial of ashes will take place at Paradise Brethren Cemetery in Smithville.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Malabar Farm Foundation, P.O. Box 551, Lucas, OH 44843, .