“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Those words from Philippians 4:13 were more than a favorite Bible verse to Carol “Jean” Rigsby—they were a source of strength and quiet confidence throughout her life. Surrounded by the comfort of home and the love of her family, Jean peacefully entered the presence of her Savior on July 15, 2026. She was 89.
She was born at home in Wayside, West Virginia on May 1, 1937 to the late Ashby H. and Maude E. (Gwinn) Allen. Though born legally blind, Jean never allowed her limitations to define her. Determined and resilient, she graduated from Greenville High School before continuing her education at the Columbus School for the Blind and later earning her cosmetology license. Though her life was not without its struggles, she held fast to her faith and faced every challenge with quiet determination. Those who knew Jean knew her quiet strength wasn’t found in what she could see, but in the unwavering faith that guided every step of her life.
On May 15, 1981, Jean married the love of her life, Ronald Eugene Rigsby. Together they shared just over forty-five years filled with love, laughter, unwavering devotion, and countless cherished memories. Whether traveling together to new places or simply enjoying life’s everyday moments, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and love.
Jean embraced life’s many seasons with a strong work ethic and a servant’s heart. She spent more than a decade as a beautician, helping others look and feel their best before beginning a second career as a meat packer with both Haring Meats and Distl Quality Meats. While her occupations changed over the years, one thing remained constant—her unwavering faith. A longtime member of Journey Life Center, Jean’s relationship with the Lord was the foundation of her life, providing strength, purpose, and comfort through every chapter. She and Eugene faithfully served their church family for many years, finding great joy in serving the Lord alongside one another.
When she wasn’t working, Jean found joy in the simple pleasures that brought family and friends together. An avid gardener and canner, she delighted in preserving the fruits of her labor to share with those she loved. She also had a talent for sewing and quilting, lovingly creating beautiful quilts that will continue to wrap her family in warmth and treasured memories for years to come. Christmas was especially dear to her heart, as she cherished the tradition of baking cookies each year with her grandchildren, creating sweet memories that will be treasured for generations. Whether gathered around a table for spirited games of euchre or spades, volunteering through the Mansfield Civitan Club, or participating as a member of the Morrow County Grange, Jean appreciated the fellowship of others and the friendships she cultivated throughout her community. She never outgrew her fondness for a good hot dog or McDonald’s chicken nuggets, a simple pleasure that always brought a smile to her face. Above all else, Jean treasured the moments spent with her beloved dogs, Diego and Shorty, and the precious time shared with her grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy to her heart and were among her life’s greatest blessings.
She is survived by her loving husband Ronald Eugene Rigsby, children Debbie (Randy) Waugh, Ronda (Jerry) Shrimplin, David (Jennifer) Welsh, Tara (Jeremy) Shaum, and Jason (Lanetta) Amick, grandchildren Cameron (Abigail) Welsh, Jacob (Lexi) Welsh, Ashby (Taylor) Welsh, Raygen (Darick) Hunter, Jillian Shaum, Crystal (Adam) Willford, Jeremy (Kristi) Shrimplin, Jacob Shrimplin, Joe (Jennifer) Waugh, Debbie Maynard, Nick Waugh, and Shelly (Joshua) Robertson, twenty-nine great-grandchildren, eleven great-great-grandchildren, sister Rachel Blalock, sister and best friend Betty (Dan) Woodland, her two fur babies Diego and Shorty, as well as several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
In addition to her parents, Jean is preceded in death by her siblings Earnest Allen, Francis Vass, Sadie Peck, Jesse Allen, Hilda Arndt, Helen Houchins, Lousie Sherwood, and James Allen, grandchildren Jonathan Rigsby, Jennifer Brantley Boice, Travis Brantley, and Colby Hildreth, and daughter Linda Rigsby Brantley.
Friends may call on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 from 4 to 6 pm at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel, where a memorial service honoring Jean will begin immediately after. Pastor Jack Kegley will speak.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at OhioHealth Hospice, especially Jean’s nurse, Jen, whose exceptional care, kindness, and support brought comfort to both Jean and her loved ones during her final days.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Jean’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on her obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com