Russell “Tommy” Rigsby, 83, a longtime resident of Spencer, Indiana left the earth on January 5, 2021 at IU Health Bloomington Hospital. Russell was born in Anderson, Indiana on July 8, 1937.
He was the valedictorian of his Freedom High School 1955 graduating class. After graduation Russell went on to serve our country the next four years in the United States Navy. Russell owned a small radiator shop from 1967-1969, where he would build/rebuild his stock cars to race at Sweet Owen Speedway and Paragon Speedway on the weekends. In 2000 Russell retired as a lathe worker from ABB after 32 years. He had a strong passion for watching, playing and coaching sports. For 28 years Russell coached girls softball, he went on to coach the first softball tournament in 1980 winning the championship title. He was also proud to have coached a team that ended with a 2nd place finish in the state in 1987. For 26 years Russell was also dedicated to coaching youth boys basketball winning multiple championships over the years and ending his final title in 2000. After retiring and volunteering you could find Russell avidly gardening, watching IU Basketball, and NASCAR rooting Jeff Gordon on.
Russell is survived by his daughter, Tammy Rigsby of Spencer, IN; granddaughter, Kiera Stephens (Brandon) of Anderson, IN; three great grandchildren, Kendall, Owen and Kennedy of Anderson, IN; brother, Owen Clifford Rigsby of Port Richie, FL; and special daughter, Lori Brooks of VA.
He was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Luellen Rigsby, brother Chester Rigsby, and sister Cleta Rigsby.
There will be no funeral service. Visitation will be held 4-8 PM Saturday, January 9, 2021 at West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home in Spencer.
The family would like to give a special thank you for all the wonderful care Russell received while at Unit 4 North and ER Dept. at IU Health Bloomington Hospital.
Online condolences may be shared with his family at www.westparrishpedigo.com
Due to State and Owen County guidelines for Covid-19, all visitors must wear a mask and maintain social distancing, and only 25 people will be allowed in attendance at one time.