Michael J. Riggs

Dear MaryAnn and Family,
I worked with Mike for about 22 years at Tewksbury.
I was the Director of Rehab Services for the Psychiatric Units and the Rehab Center.
Mike was a great listener and was excellent when dealing with staff and patients, alike.
I had only been there briefly when I was introduced to him at A Taste of Tewksbury event and he was able to recite half of my license plate! Amazing!
There were several times that we managed to get in trouble when we sat next to each other at meetings and I will bet you can guess who created the "trouble"!
I will miss his smile and his great sense of humor and his genuine goodness as a human being.
I am so sorry for your loss and I pray that your memories and love for Mike will bring you peace.
Sadly,
Marilyn Johnson

To Mary Ann and the Riggs Family,

Michael was not only my mentor but also a true friend. He was the one who hired me, gave me a chance, and took the time to guide and prepare me during my time working alongside him. His mentorship laid the foundation for everything I´ve done since, and I carry his lessons with me every day.

I am so truly thankful that I had the random chance to find a job posting online and work with Michael for three years. Those years left a lasting impact that will stay with me always.

Filling his unbelievably big shoes has not been easy, but his influence continues to shape the way I approach this role and life in general. Michael always reminded me of three simple but powerful truths: family always comes first, people are human, and at the end of the day, it´s only a job.

His wisdom, kindness, and quiet strength will never be forgotten.

With deepest sympathy,

I am so very sorry to hear about Michael's passing. We were side by side neighbors to the Riggs family on Van Kleeck Road, Millis. Of all Mike's brothers, Michael was older, but closer to me in age. Many fond memories of us growing up. Mike was always wearing a smile. I remember Terry and Fred were very proud of him. My condolences to Michaels family. Heaven gained an Angel. Love, Theresa Duhamel

Mary Ann and family, I am so very sorry for the loss of Mike. He was loved by so many of us here at Tewksbury Hospital, especially the patients. He just had a wonderful way about him. I will miss his beautiful smile, his teasing and just his overall kindness. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers, sending strength to guide you. Fly high Chief, Watch over us, you are missed.

Mary Ann I just heard the sad news of Michael´s passing today. I am still trying to process it. It was so great to speak with both of you a few weeks ago. Michael tried so hard to remain positive as he always did. Knowing him from days at Cushing Hospital when he taught classes on fire prevention up through Tewksbury Hospital when we rode together back and forth to work along with Pat D. Those were some fun rides and I´ll treasure those times. Michael was such a kind, gentle individual and loved by so many! Now he will watch over all but from a heavenly place. My condolences to you, his love for so many years and to the boys and family. Love Cheryl

I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to Mary Ann, his children and grandchildren. Mike was a kind and generous person. I have many fond memories of working with him at Tewksbury Hospital. RIP my friend.

Mary Ann, our hearts are heavy with the news of Michael´s passing. Sally and I consider ourselves incredibly lucky and privileged to have known Michael. He left behind a legacy to be proud of. We will miss him and keep his memory in our hearts always. With love and sympathy to you and your family, Sally and Steve.

So sad to hear of Michael's passing. We grew up together on Van Kleeck Rd in Millis just 2 houses away. He was a child hood sweetheart in our very young days like 10 years old. :-) So many fun memories in our neighborhood. We used to grab a pack of hot dogs from his parents freezer and bbq them on a fire in the woods with a few friends. Many fun times. I still can hear him yelling Bobby Orr when playing on the hockey table and would win. Rest in peace Michael. Gone too soon. Hugs for the family.

Kathy Hickerson (Woodard)

Steve and I are so very sad to hear about Michael's passing. He was the kindest, nicest guy and we have fond memories of working with him at Cushing Hospital. May he rest in peace. Thinking of you, Maryanne and your boys.