Richard L. "Dick" Rigby

RIGBY---Richard L. "Dick," 94, entered into the loving arms of Jesus on February 17, 2022 in Satsuma, AL. Born December 2, 1927 in Dale Borough, the son of William K. and Elsie (Custer) Rigby. Preceded in death by parents, his loving first wife of 46 years Marion Jean (Kennedy) Rigby; son Richard W. (Rick) Rigby and brother, Charles. Survived by wife of 26 years Jo (Robson) Rigby, who provided loving care as his health declined. Also survived by children: Kathy (Scott Bender) of Rockwood; Tim (Holly); Jim (Kathleen), both of Johnstown; Tammy Brady (Brian), Vienna, WV; Peggy Farrar (Fitcher Wilkins), Chester, VA; Marcy Sivitz (Adam), Pittsburgh; stepsons David Peoples (Roxana), Niceville, FL; Jamie Robson (Brooke), Satsuma, AL and daughter-in-law Carol (Slanac) Rigby of Johnstown. Survived by 17 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Dick was a 1945 graduate of Dale High where he played football and basketball. He served in the United States Navy from Jan. 1946 to Nov. 1947 serving one year in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where his love for the ocean began. After working in the family coal mines for three years, he attended Slippery Rock State Teachers College and graduated in 1953 with a degree in Health and Physical Education. He began his teaching and coaching career at Washington Twp. High School in Apollo, PA in 1953 before accepting teaching and coaching positions at Ferndale High School in the fall of 1956. While at Ferndale, he received his master's degree in guidance at IUP in 1964. Dick was the head basketball coach from 1957 to 1969, leading the Yellow Jackets to the 1966 District 6 Class B championship. He also served as assistant football coach, golf coach (24 years), gymnastics coach (23 years) and softball coach. He was athletic director from 1965 to 1979 and was one of the founders of the Appalachian Conference, serving as secretary/treasurer for 16 years. He was a driving force in building Ferndale's home football field, which opened in 1975. He was Ferndale assistant principal from 1969 to 1979 and then served as principal until his retirement in 1987. He impacted many students during his years at Ferndale as evidenced by the numerous cards and letters he received on his 90th birthday. Dick also spent 31 years as Ferndale Recreation Director. He led efforts to build the walking trail along Ferndale Avenue, which is named in his honor. He was the gymnastics coach at Turner's from 1960 to 1976, and it was likely The Four Seasons were playing in the background. While living in Dunedin, FL, he was a member of the board of directors at Dolphin Pointe Condominium. Dick loved spending time with family at the cottage in Bedford County - badminton was a staple - as well as the annual vacations to Myrtle Beach, where he body surfed until he was 88. The family celebrated its 50th consecutive year there last August. He was an active lifelong member and Sunday school teacher at Beulah United Methodist Church, and he and Jo were faithful attendees at Redemption Church in Saraland, AL. Friends will be received from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday March 4, 2022 at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland Twp., where a memorial service and military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday March 5, 2022 with Pastor Dave Streets officiating and Menoher VFW, Post #155 conducting military honors. Because of Tim's recent kidney transplant, MASKS ARE REQUIRED IN THE CHAPEL AREA. Inurnment, Richland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Richard L. "Dick" Rigby to the Ferndale Recreation Commission, 109 Station Street, Johnstown 15905. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.