James Ralph Rigg, 84, of rural Lovington, died at 9:27 AM Thursday, November 7, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM Sunday, November 10, 2013 at Shrader Funeral Home, 431 S. Vine Street, Arthur, with D.J. Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Arthur Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3:00-5:00 PM Saturday at the funeral home.

Ralph was born March 12, 1929 in Franklin County, Illinois, the son of Tom and Lillie Smith Rigg. He married Louise Blower on August 14, 1949 in Arthur.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years , Louise Rigg of rural Lovington; 2 children, Kay (John) Rawdin of Atwood; Larry (Penny) Rigg of Decatur; 3 grandchildren, Michelle (Greg) Owczarzak of Dyer, Indiana; Todd (Kristi) Rigg of Mt. Zion; Heather (Jim) Winkleblack of Mattoon; 7 great grandchildren, Allyson Winkleblack; Lucas Kearney; Drew Owczarzak; Kaitlyn Winkleblack; Ty Owczarzak, Ava Rigg; and Anna Rigg; and brother, Howard Rigg. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dorothy; and brother, Herbert.

Ralph graduated from Arthur High School in 1947. He spent over 40 years farming in the Lovington area. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and spending time with his family and friends. He especially enjoyed playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ralph was a member of the Hammond United Methodist Church.

Memorials are suggested to Carle Hospice or Hammond United Methodist Church.

Online condolences to the family may be sent to www.hilligossshraderfh.com.