Robert James Riggles

Robert James Riggles, age 61 of Martinsville,. Virginia, entered his Heavenly reward on June 22, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Maryland on June 9, 1961, the son of Robert A and Bess (Montgomery) Riggles.
As a young enlisted man, Robert served in the U.S. Air Force for over eight years while working as a jet mechanic. During that time, he completed three years of his Bachelor’s degree. Upon medical separation from the Air Force, Robert attended Oklahoma Christian University, graduating in 1988. At this time, he entered law school at University of Memphis, graduating in 1991.
Robert met his wife of 32 years, Cara Danette (Barlar) at the Christian Student Center near U of M. They were married in 1990. After graduating from U of M Law, Robert was commissioned with the USAF, serving as a Judge Advocated General. He achieved the rank of Major and retired in 2004. During his service, he attended the Army JAG School in Charlottesville, achieving a Masters of Law.
In addition to his parents and wife, he is survived by 3 adult children: September, Breyton and Grayson Riggles, 3 siblings: Jean Frangowlakis and her husband Mitch; Mark Riggles and his life partner, Cheryl Nish; and Mrlinda Caudle and her husband, Eric; 6 nieces/nephews: Sarah(James) Bartels; Joseph(Heather) Story; Elizabeth Frangowlakis; Ethan, Sophia and Leela Caudle; and 3 great nephews: Cole, Levi and Blake Bartels. He joyfully anticipated the (impending) arrival of his pre-born niece, Lydia Story.
Robert was a faithful Christian who had a heart for teaching youth classes. He loved to sing! He was a knowledgeable history buff who especially loved visiting Civil War sites. He loved learning and was involved in the home education of his children whom he loved dearly. He enjoyed family trips to homeschool retreats where he could “talk God”, play games, enjoy sports, and meets lots of wonderful people. He was a handyman who could fix almost anything. Having grown up with a father serving in the Air Force and then serving himself, he traveled extensively, living in places like Alaska, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, New Hampshire, Utah, Virginia and Japan. He loved Alaska dearly and always called it home!
A Celebration of Life was held in his honor on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at the Rocky Mount Church of Christ.