James E. Riggs (“Riggsie”), age 73, of Quincy—a sharp wit, loyal friend, and lifelong believer in long shots—passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, surrounded by the family he so fiercely loved.

Born and raised in Quincy, Jim was the proud son of the late William and Eileen (Capen) Riggs. A 1970 graduate of Quincy High, he later attended Quincy Junior College before serving over two decades as a Deputy Sheriff for the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, earning the respect of colleagues and the quiet admiration of all who knew him.

Jim lived for game day—but not just the kind with a scoreboard. He had an uncanny instinct for the horses, an eternal faith in the lottery, and an ability to read a Keno board like a seasoned card shark. Whether shouting at the screen during a tight football game or dissecting the odds at the track, he approached every moment with the same fiery spirit and belief that luck favors the bold.

But beyond the games and the wagers, Jim’s heart belonged to his family. He was the kind of father who showed up, cheered the loudest, and quietly celebrated your wins more than his own. He never missed a milestone for his children or grandchildren, and every ticket he scratched, every bet he placed, was just another way of sharing stories, hope, and laughter with the people he loved.

He is survived by Barbara N. Riggs, his devoted children, Christopher J. Riggs and his wife Corrina of Quincy, and Katherine E. Riggs of Belmont. He was predeceased by his son, Matthew J. Riggs. He was the proud grandfather of Gianna Barrows, Matthew Riggs, and Anthony Riggs. Jim also leaves behind his siblings: William J. “Bill” Riggs and his wife Jini of Harwich, Paul F. Riggs and his wife Laurie of Franklin, and Dorothy J. Brady and her husband Sean of Quincy. He was predeceased by his sister, Eileen T. Harris, and his brother, Ronald T. Riggs. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and their families and lifelong friends.

Memorial Funeral Services will be conducted at the Sweeney Brothers Home for Funerals, 1 Independence Avenue, Quincy, on Thursday, June 26, at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Memorial Visitation prior to the service from 10 – 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, 269 Hanover Street, Bldg. 3, Hanover, MA 02339.