Rita Kathryn Rigney

Rita Kathryn Rigney, a native and lifelong resident of Hampton Roads, died on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at the age of 91. She was a dedicated employee; she worked for several years at Rices Nachmans department store followed by 17 years of service at Newport News Shipbuilding. She retired in 1992 and began dedicating her time to her true passion: spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter who she lovingly referred to as her “best buddy.” Rita truly enjoyed taking care of those close to her; her giving nature and genuine, supportive love was apparent to all those who had the pleasure of knowing her. In addition to spending time with family, Rita also enjoyed shopping (favorite store: K-Mart), fishing (on her namesake, the Rita Kay), cooking (may we all raise a glass to her fried chicken and think of her each time we eat a Hershey Kiss), listening to music (especially music played by her son, Garland), and watching I Love Lucy (favorite episode: The Chocolate Factory).

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Harry B. Cameron Sr. and Mary Cameron; her siblings, Harry B. Cameron Jr., Carman Cameron, and John Welson Cameron; her husband, Garland B. Rigney Sr.; her children, Barry W. Rigney and Douglas C. Rigney; and several nieces and nephews.

Rita is survived by her son, Garland Rigney and his wife, Christine; her granddaughter, Stephanie Rigney; her partner of 40 years, Douglas E. Braswell; daughter-in-law, Donna Rigney; nieces, Linda Cameron and Teresa Carr; the Braswell family of Clayton, NC; and Christle Holsey and family of Howell, Michigan.

The funeral will be held at Peninsula Memorial Park on Monday, October 4th at 1PM. Please be mindful of current CDC recommendations regarding COVID restrictions. Flowers may be sent to Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home in Hampton, VA.

“Happy Trails to you, Mom/Nanny, Until we meet again….”