elbert rigsby
1917-1989
Life Story
Parents: James “Jim” Rigsby (1885–1955) and Assenia Evans Rigsby (1886–1982)
Burial: Evans Cemetery, Newton County, Mississippi
Elbert Rigsby was born on February 21, 1917, in Newton County, Mississippi, into the large and well-known Rigsby–Evans family. He grew up working on the family farm and completed the 8th grade of elementary school—an educational milestone for many rural African American students of his generation. Farming remained his lifelong occupation.
Family and Personal Life
Elbert married Sophronie Rigsby (1914–?), and together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Later in life, he also became the adoptive father of Billy Ray Moore of Forest, whom he cherished.
Faith and Community Involvement
Elbert was a devoted member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church, where he participated faithfully until his health declined. His obituary remembered him as a committed church member and a man respected by relatives, neighbors, and friends.
Passing
Elbert passed away on March 4, 1989, at Riley Hospital in Meridian, Mississippi, at the age of 72. His funeral was held on March 8 at St. John M.B. Church, with Rev. Purvis Moore officiating. He was laid to rest in the Evans Cemetery, a burial ground deeply connected to his family lineage.
Survivors
Elbert leaves to mourn his passing:
- His adopted son, Billy Ray Moore of Forest
- One brother, R.K. Rigsby of Marshall
- Two sisters:
- Mackie Banks of Detroit, Michigan
- Clotel Inman of Meridian
- A host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends
Pallbearers and flowerbearers consisted of family friends, offering final honors to a man remembered for his character and quiet service.
Holifield Funeral Home of Forest handled the arrangements.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- The Newton Record, Jim Rigsby Obituary, Thu, Oct 06, 1955 ·Page 13
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- The Newton Record, Assinia M. Rigsby Obituary, Wed, Dec 01, 1982 ·Page 34
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
- The Newton Record, Elbert Rigsby Obituary, Wed, Mar 15, 1989 ·Page 20
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
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