Kevin Douglas Riggs

Kevin Douglas Riggs, 26, of Afton, NY. Passed away September 2, 2023, at Wilson Hospital Johnson City NY. Kevin was born in New London, CT. Kevin was predeceased by his mother Theresa Riggs on February 23, 2013.

Kevin is survived by his brothers Michael and wife Emily Riggs of Greene NY and their six children Scot, Tiffany, Lucy, Charlotte, Ana and David. Carl Wilder of Hampton Virginia, Randy Wilder of Charleston SC, and Daniel Wilder of Charleston SC. Kevin is also survived by his grandfather Michael Riggs of Afton NY, and his grandmother Beverly Riggs of Columbia SC. He will be missed dearly by all those who knew and loved him.

Kevin worked at Raymond Corporation in Greene, N.Y. He diligently pursued his goal of becoming a skilled welder and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of his work. One of his goals had been to compete in Japan at the welding competitions that Raymond offered. He had a great sense of pride in his welding and was eager to further enhance his skills. Kevin loved his nieces and nephews wholeheartedly, which made him a proud uncle. He enjoyed fishing, hiking, riding his motorcycle, working on his truck, and listening to country music.

His dog, Coal, was one of his best friends, and he hardly ever left the house without Coal by his side.

With a kind heart and an outstanding sense of humor, he loved a good joke and never missed an opportunity to bring a smile to someone's face. Having joined right out of high school, Kevin served in the Army National Guard. He loved his country and cherished the men and women he served with. He took great pride in his weekends away at drill and formed many close bonds.

His unwavering commitment to duty and honor shone brightly in everything he did. In the Guard, a unique bond is shared, a brotherhood that transcends mere camaraderie, and Kevin embodied that bond in every sense.

In a remarkable act of selflessness, Kevin chose to extend his legacy of service even in his passing by becoming an organ donor. Kevin’s decision to give the gift of life to five individuals in need was a testament to his character, reflecting the very core of what it means to be a Soldier—a commitment to protect and serve, even when facing the greatest adversity.

The honor walk that accompanied Kevin's transfer from the ICU to the operating room was a powerful testament to the respect and admiration he earned throughout his life and service. Specialist Kevin Riggs’ legacy will live on in the lives he saved and the inspiration he provided for us all.

In the words of Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Kevin gave the greatest gift of all—the gift of life itself. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Behe Funeral Home Inc. Funeral service for Kevin will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Berean Bible Church, Greene, NY at 2:30 PM. Friends and family may share memories and condolences by visiting www.behefuneralhome.com.