Hazel Riggs

Hazel Riggs

Tupelo- Hazel Leslie Riggs, 84, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo. Born on December 5, 1940, in Ballardsville, Mississippi, Hazel was the daughter of Harrison Leslie and Johnnie Mae Payne Leslie. A dedicated professional, she worked as an accountant for 30 years before retiring from The Southern Group.

Hazel was a devoted member of First Christian Church, where her faith and leadership shone brightly. She served as the board chairman of the church and as the statewide director for the Christian Women’s Fellowship, inspiring countless women in their spiritual journeys. An avid reader, Hazel found joy in books and shared her love of learning with her family and friends.

In 1958, Hazel married the love of her life, Eddie Riggs, with whom she shared 38 wonderful years until his passing in 1996. Above all, Hazel cherished her role as a grandmother, and her grandchildren were the light of her life. Her kindness, wisdom, and faith leave an enduring legacy in the hearts of those who knew her.

Hazel is survived by her two daughters, Julie Riggs Martin and Janice Riggs Driskell and her husband, Joel, both of Tupelo; four grandchildren, Anna Wesleigh Driskell, Emerie Driskell, James Martin, and Marley Driskell; two sisters, Helen Little, and Sharia Brown Sewell; and a host of nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and two brothers, Carroll Leslie, and Benny Leslie.

Visitation will be 12 until service time Monday, January 20, 2025, at Pegues, Tupelo.

Services honoring her life will be 2 p.m. Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues with Rev. Ray Morton officiating. Private burial will be at Lee Memorial Park.

Honorary pallbearers will be Joel Driskell, Pat Riggs, Scott Little, Jeff Little, Chad Brown, Blythe Brown, and Tim Leslie and all her colleagues at The Southern Group.

Memorials may be made to Sanctuary Hospice House, PO Box 2177, Tupelo, MS 38803.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at PeguesFuneralHome.com.