Thomas Dale Riggs, known lovingly as Tom, graduated to Heaven on July 21, 2025, at the age of 77. After enduring multiple health challenges with quiet courage, grace, and even a sense of humor, he is now whole, healed, and rejoicing in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Tom was born on May 2, 1948, in Sacramento, California. He spent his youth in Nevada and graduated from Carson City High School in 1966. That same year, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served as a Gunner's Mate during the Vietnam War from November 21, 1966, to December 29, 1970.

While in the Navy, Tom began his service at the Naval Station in San Diego, California. He served aboard a salvage ship in Subic Bay, Philippines and completed his service aboard the USS Cree. For his faithful and honorable service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star, and the Navy Unit Commendation.

After his honorable discharge, Tom worked at the Nevada State Prison in Carson City before moving to Idaho in 1979. Upon settling in Idaho, he devoted 33 years to the City of Nampa Waterworks Department until his retirement in 2015. Tom also served for many years on the board of Nampa Christian Schools and was an active member of his local church, where his faith and commitment were an inspiration to many.

On April 9, 1972, Tom married his lifelong bride and the love of his life, Jeannette (Owens) Riggs. Their marriage of 45 and a half years was a beautiful testimony of faith, loyalty, and love. Jeannette preceded him in death in 2018, and Tom now rejoices in being reunited with her in the glory of Heaven.

Together, Tom and Jeannette were blessed with three daughters: Shauna, Meagan, Jeanine, and three sons-in-law, whom Tom welcomed as sons: Casey Webb, Nathan Bath, and Brad Boster.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to seven granddaughters—Sariah, Kaitlyn, Rachael, Annalise, Gracelyn, Bethany, and Brenna—and three grandsons—John, Brett, and Brody. His legacy of family continues through three grandsons-in-law—Jeremiah, Parker, and Nathan—and three great-grandsons: Anarion, Arkyn, and Edmund. Tom is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Robin and Don Straw, along with many cousins and extended family members who loved him dearly.

He will be remembered not only for his strong faith in his Savior Jesus Christ and devotion to his family, but also for his generous hospitality, hearty laugh, and jolly sense of humor. Tom had a deep love for classic cars, oldies music, and most of all—his family. His favorite hobby was spending time with those he loved. Having already sailed the seas, he never had the itch to travel—he just wanted his family close, and that's exactly how his beautiful life came to a close: surrounded by his loving and devoted family.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jeannette, his parents Tom and Josephine Riggs, his sister Cheryl, and many cherished family and friends.

Special Thanks The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone at Horizon Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate and kind care of Dad. A special thank you also goes to Cam with Visiting Angels, who was not just a caregiver but truly became like family—a tremendous blessing during Dad's final days.

A funeral service with U.S. Navy honors will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Nampa Funeral Home, Yraguen Chapel, in Nampa, Idaho. A graveside service will follow on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise, Idaho.

Tom's life was one of quiet strength, unwavering faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on through the generations of family he cherished and the countless lives he touched.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:23