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Geoffrey Wiggins Obituary
April 19, 1953 - November 29, 2017
Cary
Geoffrey Emil Wiggins, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend left this earthly life to be in the arms of the Lord Jesus Christ on November 29, 2017. "Well done good and faithful servant."
Geof was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to the late W. Frank Wiggins Jr. and late Lois J. Zurbuchan Wiggins on April 19, 1953.
He later moved to Paris, Illinois where he was a member of the championship Paris Tigers basketball team. He also participated in baseball where he excelled as a left-hand pitcher. As a freshman, he threw a no hitter. Geof was recruited by many schools and accepted a four-year scholarship to Virginia Tech where he played on their National Invitational Tournament Championship Team. He earned his bachelor's degree in accounting and went on to earn his law degree from Valparaiso University. He first worked for Ernst and Ernst before starting his own tax firm Romeo, Wiggins & Co, LLP with his close friend and associate Jeffery S. Romeo.
Geof married Brenda Stamper, his college sweetheart at Memorial Chapel in Blacksburg, Virginia. They renewed their love and vows in October of this year in a ceremony presided over by Rev. Jerry Klug. They were married for 41 years.
Geof had a passion for hunt club, spending time with his hunting buddies, golfing, boating and skeet shooting as well as other outdoor activities.
Geof gave endless volunteer hours providing support to the Lutheran Legacy Foundation, Resurrection Lutheran Church, coaching his children's basketball teams and serving on numerous non-profit boards.
He is survived by devoted wife Brenda, daughter Erin and husband Dr. Christopher Ellington and son, Geoffery. Geof is also survived by his brother W. Frank Wiggins III of Yuma, Arizona, James T. Wiggins of Evanston ILL, Sandra A Hutchings of Bradenton, FL. He was also survived by his mother-in-law, Catherine Stamper of the home, and brother-in-law Larry J. Stamper of Glendale WV, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Geof felt so grateful to be surrounded by loving kind friends and caregivers as his health declined. They included Juanita Lucas, Johnetta Gordon, David White, Frances Smith, Gwen Jones, Jay Wilkins, Charles Yeganian, Ed Green, Chuck Deavers, Whit Kenney, Babs and Mike Wagner, Diane McQueen, Beverly Skinner and many other loving individuals.
Geof wanted to thank Rex Home Health Care especially Scott Mullens and Thailia Ray. Dr. Simon Khagi and his health care team at the UNC Cancer Center were amazing in their thoughtful and aggressive care in treating Geof's Stage IV brain cancer, Glioblastoma. They fought in tandem with him at slaying the Glioblastoma beast for over twenty months. This in itself was a great victory and his family praises God, our Savior.
A celebration of his wonderful amazing active love-filled life will be held Monday December 4, 2017. There will be a visitation with family from 2-4 pm at the Resurrection Lutheran Church, 100 W. Lochmere Dr. Cary, NC. Visitation will be followed by a memorial service at 4pm and a reception at McGregor Downs Country Club, 430 Saint Andrews Ln, Cary, NC from 5-7pm. Another memorial ceremony will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Paris, Illinois during the Spring. Arrangements and dates are pending.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted in his memory to Lutheran Legacy Foundation at PO Box 31, Paris, ILL 61944 and UNC Department of Neurosurgery for Brain Tumor Research at giving.dev.unc.edu or by calling 919-537-3818 to make a gift in Geof's honor.
Condolences may be sent to www.BrownWynneCary.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Geoffrey Wiggins
Sponsored by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home.
Erin Wiggins
October 10, 2018
I miss you Daddy❤❤❤❤❤
May 20, 2018
Geoff- we had a lot of good times playing ball in school- you are being missed- your friend - Pat Bradley
Howard Tyler
May 8, 2018
I met Geof in high school chemistry class and as lab partners. He was a year older and a star BB player but he treated me like I had been a friend forever. He had his priorities together early on and never thought of himself above anyone. He had great character as a teen. I am sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
March 6, 2018
Neil Emberg "No Longer Mine"
This is the song that Dad played over and over during his final days. It was the song that he chose for our father-daughter dance during my wedding. I miss him more than I ever thought I could miss anyone. He was my superhero, I always looked up to him and held him up in such high esteem. He was imperfect, as we all are in this life, but despite his fallacies, he was an incredible person, friend, dad, husband, brother, and son and I was very blessed to have him as my Daddy. I thank GOD that he was there for me through the thick and thin. He never left my side, even if I made it tough. He was patient and loving, and he let me grow, and always tried to give me the best advice in order to pave my way to be successful and safe.
I love you Daddy, and I can't wait to see you again in Heaven.
Luann Parmelee
February 21, 2018
I remember Jeff and Brenda even though it has been many years since my husband Bill worked at E and W and we lost contact. We remember him as one of the good guys and know the world will sadder for his passing. May God bless and comfort Brenda and his entire family .
Susan
January 12, 2018
To the family of dear Geof.
I had been wondering about how Geof was doing as I had not heard an update in a while. As I have known two others with Glioblastoma in the past several years, I knew your family was in for a tough fight. I was saddened to see that there was an obituary (but what a lovely one and fine tribute it is!) I hope by now some of the immediate sadness of your loss is starting to subside and you can read these messages and smile about all of the wonderful things people said about Geof.
My acquaintance with Geof was quite by accident. My (former) husband was starting his own business - using Quick Books on a MAC computer - and we had decided we needed to find an accountant who could untangle the "who owes what" in our household at tax time. I asked around for a few names - and my records were in Quicken on a PC - and a friend of mine mentioned "Jeff/Geof" at Romeo Wiggins. He actually meant Jeff Romeo, who did his taxes, but it was too late. I had already been to the office (in the North Raleigh location days - I believe it was 1999!) handed off my stack of assorted paperwork to Geof and he did my taxes ever since! Including after I moved several years ago to Maryland.
And while I would only cross paths with him a couple of times a year (drop off and pick up) what I remember the most was how in this day and age, when most professionals are hurrying people out the door, Geof would take the time to sit and answer questions, talk about any changes over the year, he truly seemed to care about the lives of the people he did business with. While I was sharing stories about my family over the years, he would also talk about his. I know how proud of you he was and how very much he loved you. It's been 11 years since my Dad passed away so I can relate to how hard it is, but when you know the person has lived a good life, is admired and respected, made a positive impact on this world in his life, is loved and loves you back, is rightly in his place in Heaven, short of one more day, I'm not sure what more we can pray for?
I am glad I had the opportunity to know Geof.
My sincerest condolences, Susan
Mary Cole
December 21, 2017
Geof did our taxes for as long as I can remember. We really trusted him and appreciated his advice. His life touched many people.
Erin Ellington
December 20, 2017
Steven and Katherine Hegyi
December 8, 2017
We knew Geof professionally for the sixteen years he handled our taxes. Always competent, always helpful, he was a fine accountant and a fine man. Our deepest condolences to all his family and friends.
Jarris and Sarah Kathie Wilkins
December 8, 2017
From the many stories I gathered from Jay, Pam, John, Florence and my husband, I understand Big Geoff to be a great man---great in stature and great in character. I wish I had known him too. The Celebration of Life service was a beautiful testimony to his legacy. Bitter is the sting of losing a loved one to cancer and long is the road ahead in healing one's heart of grief, but there are many who love your family. With their support, the watchful eye of your beloved from heaven, God's gentle guidance and the strength you possess inwardly, you will get there. We are cheering y'all on, Brenda, Geoff and Erin! With Love, Jarris and SK
Tim McDevitt
December 7, 2017
I only knew Geof professionally, but he struck me as a man of integrity, decency, and humor. To his family - you are in my prayers. I wish you peace and the comfort of great memories.
Erin Wiggins
December 5, 2017
I love you Daddy, and I know you knew that you meant the world to me. You are forever in my heart and thoughts.
December 5, 2017
Mrs. Wiggins, I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Aron Johnson
Pam Hardee
December 5, 2017
Brenda,
It has been a long time since we all hung together but you guys have always had a place in my memories. I am just now seeing this and am so sad to hear this news. Geoff was always a stellar man. I am sorry for your family's loss and will be thinking of/praying for you, Erin and Geoffrey. My love to all of you and wishes that all of your memories of Geoff will help you through this time.
Pam Poston Hardee
Frank Wiggins
December 4, 2017
My sincere condolences for the passing of my brother Geoff. I really appreciated how he took care of Mom before her passing. Brenda, Erin, and Geof, you have my deepest sympathy. Mom always said he was a saint and now I'm sure he is, in Heaven.
Victoria Gallagher
December 4, 2017
To Brenda, Erin and Geoffrey -- Pat and I were so very sad to learn about Geof's death from cancer. We are remembering you in our prayers and thanking God for the joy that Geof brought to your lives, to the lives of the RLC community and to the lives of all those who knew him. We know he is with His Lord and we ask our dear and loving Savior to grant you grace and peace.
December 4, 2017
Dear Brenda, Geoffrey, and Erin,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the passing of Geoff. You are in my thoughts and prayers in this difficult time.
John Straight
Skeet gang dinner
Ed Green
December 4, 2017
At the bar
Ed Green
December 4, 2017
Argentina
Ed Green
December 4, 2017
December 3, 2017
Geof and I were high school classmates and played together on the championship 1970-71 season. He was the gentle giant. He was everyone's friend.We worked together during the summer bailing hay. I am saddened about his loss too soon in life. May he rest in peace.
Dr. Steven Lamb, Bay Village, Ohio
True Way Holiness Church
December 3, 2017
On behalf of Pastor Johnathan Thomas and the members of the True Way Holiness Church Ministry, we send our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to the family of Geoffrey Emil Wiggins.
During this difficult time we pray that you find strength in the love of family and embrace the warmth and kind words of friends. We too share in your loss and wish you comfort and peace of mind. To Brenda & Geoffrey be encouraged and know that God is just a prayer away. "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2.
Joyce Bailey Stephens
December 2, 2017
Brenda & Geoffrey, my condolences. You are in my thoughts & prayers. Be encouraged and lean on the arms of the almighty!
Pastor Jonathan & True Way Holiness Church Family
December 2, 2017
On behalf of Pastor Johnathan Thomas and the members of the True Way Holiness Church Ministry, we send our heartfelt and deepest sympathy to the family of Geoffrey Emil Wiggins. During this difficult time we pray that each of you find strength in the love of family and embrace the warmth and kind words of friends. We too share in your loss and wish you comfort and peace of mind. To Brenda & Geoffrey be encouraged and know that God is just a prayer away. "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." Psalm 18:2.
Elder Jackie Bailey Lawrence
December 2, 2017
RIP Big Geof. Much love to the family.
Bill & Eddie Bailey Holden
December 2, 2017
We are praying for your strength & comfort. ✝
December 2, 2017
Dear Brenda and family,
Please accept our sincere sympathy during this time of loss. Our prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Anne and Henry Fuhrmann
Jack Harper
December 2, 2017
Brenda, Geoffrey, Aaron and family. My heart goes out to you. I am saddened that my friend has departed us. I have comfort however that he now lives with the Lord. He was a very good man. A gentile giant. I pray peace for each one of you. We will never get over this but God will see us through it.
My deepest condolensces.
Woody Woodard
December 2, 2017
Our family sends heartfelt condolences to Geoff's family and extended family. Geoff did our parents, Mose and Evelyn Woodard's taxes from the late 70's until their passing, but he did so much more for them than that. My parents held Geoff in the highest regard, as do we.
Solomon Family
December 1, 2017
Dear Brenda and Family,
We are remembering you at this time in our thoughts and prayers.
The Solomon Family
Anna T. Webb Wheeless
December 1, 2017
Geof was my Godsend, he helped me through some tough times and was always there when I needed a Good Friend, my thoughts and prayers are with you Brenda,Erin and Geoffrey and your family. Geof hung the Moon, may you rest in peace my friend.
Larry and Marilyn Mustard
December 1, 2017
Love, prayers, and hugs to Brenda and all the family. We are praying for God's peace to hold you close and give you comfort.
Much love and Sympathy,
Larry and Marilyn Mustard
VT Hokies
John and Carla Yaquinta
December 1, 2017
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time. May you find comfort in knowing Geof is now resting in peace. We love you!
Janet Todd
December 1, 2017
Sending the light of God to Brenda, Erin, Geoff and Aunt Katie during this time. I love you. Janet
Janet Todd
December 1, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
December 1, 2017
So sorry to hear of Geof's passing. We worked together many years ago at Ernst & Ernst. I still have fond memories of his involvement in the Ernst & Ernst baseball team and the parties after each season. He was a great coach.
My sympathy to the Wiggins family.
Leigh Morton
John OConnor
December 1, 2017
Our condolences to the Wiggins family and all that loved Geof. He was so kind to me and our family even during his darkest days and that's the kind of character he had and the legacy he left. I am forever grateful.
December 1, 2017
Our family sends heartfelt condolences to Geoff
Dawn Leister
December 1, 2017
Our deepest sympathies and God's peace to Brenda, Erin, Geoffrey and all the family...
John O'C
December 1, 2017
Jeff cared for my son and cared for our family during his darkest times and that's just how he roles. I could go on. What unbelievable character.
Sandy Martin
November 30, 2017
Our family is Filled with wonderful memories of a long friendship. Well done, Good and Faithful Servent.❤Sending love and prayers to Brenda, Erin, and Geoffrey. So very sorry for your loss
Patrick Bell
November 30, 2017
It was a privilege working with Geof on the Clara & Spencer Werner Foundation and Lutheran Legacy Foundation. His financial background and leadership provided many blessings to his communities and the greater Lutheran Church.
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