Minnie Pearl Riggs

Minnie “Pearl” Riggs was born on July 29,1941 in Perry County, Alabama. She was the only child born to Earline Goodgame and Nathaniel Gills Sr. She was the third oldest of Nathaniel's children. Minnie was preceded in death by her mom Earline, dad Nathaniel, mom Fletta, sister Betty, brothers Sidney and Arthur, and grandmother Arlena. Minnie was educated in Perry County School District. Following the early death of Minnie’s Mom, Earline, Minnie went to live with her Dad and his wife, Fletta and family in Birmingham, Alabama. This is where Minnie became the loving big sister to five younger siblings, who thought she was their own personal life sized baby doll! Sent from heaven, just for them! Minnie was truly loved in this household. Her Mom, Fletta, often warned her to quit doing everything for her siblings and allow them to grow up and do things on their own! Minnie, being the best big sister in the world, secretly continued to spoil them by doing everything in her power to keep them out of trouble and the cross hairs of their parents! Minnie’s love was so strongly felt by them, they all wanted to follow her, wherever she would go! They even tried to stop her from getting married, so she could always live with them!

Minnie accepted Christ at an early age in Alabama. She was a member of the Oak Street Baptist Church under the pastorage of Rev. C. M. Murdock, where she served faithfully until moving to California. Upon moving she united with the New Mt.Pleasant Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Merriweather. She later joined Jericho Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Anthony Smith. Once moving to Arizona she joined New Home Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Daryll Jackson. She served faithfully in the church as long as her health allowed. Minnie loved the lord and enjoyed being in the pleasure of others that did as well

Following her schooling she met John Riggs and they married, to this union three children were born John Jr, Twyler, and Franchell. Minnie and John settled with their children in Los Angeles, California. Minnie could not avoid those younger siblings of hers, as they finished school, one by one they would move to California as well! She always reminded her family to put God first in their lives and she led by example. She courageously confronted her life obstacles with all the highs and lows. Minnie lovingly took on the care of her son in love, Andrew who needed her in the loss of his own mom. She took this task on with a heart of loving and nurturing care.This was a woman of God. She treated this as another stepping stone on her path of life.

Minnie remained in California until the death of her husband John and her son John Jr. Following these two life changing events she moved to Arizona to be with her daughters. Here in Arizona she carried out the remainder of her life immersed in fun activities, traveling, visiting the casino’s, playing bingo with her senior friends, and being with family. She never missed an opportunity to bring people together for some good food and enjoyment. In July of this year, she turned 80 years young and had the opportunity to enjoy friends, and family from far and near! Minnie was a Bingo fanatic, and just fun being around. Her wit was oftentimes unfiltered! She loved trying to stand up and shake a leg! She was always animated and enjoyed her grandchildren and great grandchildren. When she was around, they knew they were in for a great time and would be treated with lots of love! She was so thoughtful and giving, she had a heart of gold. She was very emotional and not embarrassed to let her tears express her feelings. Minnie loved her children, family and friends dearly and was fiercely protective and loyal! She showed her Christan character everyday, you never had to guess about her belief in God. she walked and talked, the talk daily!

On a beautiful Friday morning of October 15th, 2021 as the lord filled the day with his light, Minnie decided to speak for herself! She let each of us know, just how she felt! Let’s listen to her speak! I looked up and saw the face of God. I chose to close my eyes and go home with him. My transition was quiet and sweet, much like the life I loved living! My new home is furnished and what a sight to behold! We all gather into the city. We can enter the 3 gates from the North, 3 gates to the South, 3 gates from the East, and 3 gates from the West. My Place is located on an estate beyond the Pearly Gates. It is over in Gloryland! I can walk and talk with my Master without any worry or care!

My Children Twyler( Fred), Franchell, Andrew, and Annie ( a child of love). My Grands Cherish (Derrick), Lervertis, Talara (Tevin), Marsay, John III,Tatiana, Teresa (CJ), Johniesha, Taryn, Amari, Gustavia, Janazia, Byron, and Jovonne. My Greatgrands Tayah, Tariq, Xoey, Dominique, Deveon, Christina, DeMarco, Adelalai, Adah, Gideon, Allanna, Arvi, and Samson. My sisters and Brothers, Ruby, Bob (Cookie), JoAnn, Wilma, Nadine (Norman), and Nathaniel Jr. My cousins, my nieces, my nephews, my brothers-in-love, my sisters-in-love,my friends and all that knew me. I have my designer here, who has fit me with a perfect view. I could go on and on about it, but I will just pray that you all live, so you can see and live here one day! I have found peace, joy, and happiness, beyond all understanding! I never imagined, He had all of this just for me! I am so excited about my new home! Please, don’t worry, don’t fret, don’t cry as if there is no tomorrow! Just live and follow Christ and He will one day bring you to me! I am resting in His care!