Nov. 28, 1947 – Feb. 25, 2024

Joseph Eugene Riggins, 76, of Fort Smith, Ark., died on Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024. Joe was born in Fort Smith in 1947, to Ralph and Sue Riggins.

He graduated from Northside High School in 1965 and retired from Goodyear, the Air National Guard and was currently working for the Sebastian County Election Commission. He was happily married to Sherry for 56 years.

Joe had a love for his Savior, life, music and family. His voice was heard by many as he sang in churches, weddings, funerals and many community events. While in the Air National Guard, he was known as the “Singing Sergeant” and was Assistant Chaplain for the 188th. No one was ever a stranger to him. His smile and laughter could brighten a room. He enjoyed listening to all kinds of music and singing in the First Baptist Church choir. He was a former member of the Fort Smith Chorale and one of the hosts of a local TV show. Joe loved spending time with his grandkids. Many hours were spent at baseball and football games, rowing events, dance competitions and swim meets.

Joe is survived by his wife Sherry, his daughter Karen and her husband Sean, and his son Brad, his mom Sue, his brother Dennis Riggins and wife Lana, his sister Cindy Jones and husband Steve. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Evan, Jenna, Will, Olson, Bennett, Emmory, his great-grandchild Alex and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services were held at First Baptist Church in Fort Smith at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 1, 2024. Visitation was held from 5 to 7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Music Ministry at First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 609, Fort Smith, AR 72901. For online donations, go to www.fsfbc.org.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome. com