lucille walker rigsby
1923-1997
Life Story
Parents: Elbert Walker (1899–1967) andRebecca Wheaton Walker (1900–1970)
Burial: Evans Cemetery, Newton County, Mississippi
Lucille Walker Rigsby was born on May 19, 1923, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Elbert Walker and Rebecca Wheaton Walker. Raised in a rural, faith-centered household, she completed the 8th grade of elementary school—an achievement that reflected determination and opportunity during a time when education for African American children in Mississippi was often limited.
She later married Grady Rigsby, Sr. (1923–1985), joining two respected families long rooted in the Altare and St. John communities. Their union blended faith, family, and resilience, producing several children who remained devoted to her throughout her life.
Children
Lucille’s known children include:
- Charlene Rigsby
- Sylvia Rigsby (1965–2006)
- Lisha Rigsby
- Odessa Rigsby
- James E. Rigsby
- Grady Rigsby, Jr.
- Jacqueline Rigsby
- Jerome Rigsby
- Peggy Marie Rigsby
Her children and grandchildren were a central part of her life, especially in her later years.
Faith and Community Life
Lucille was a dedicated member of Morning Star M.B. Church, where her gentle spirit and steadfast faith earned her the admiration of many. Her warmth extended beyond Morning Star, touching congregations across Newton and Meridian.
On Saturday, November 5, 1994, an appreciation program was held in her honor at Morning Star M.B. Church after she had been sick and shut-in since May of that year. She attended the program accompanied by all her children and most of her grandchildren.
Under the direction of Bro. Anthony Robinson, members of Morning Star, Sylvester United Methodist Church, St. John M.B. Church, Jerusalem M.B. Church, and Pleasant Grove M.B. Church of Meridian honored her with songs and spoken tributes. The grand finale came when her grandchildren presented her with a chain of roses and carnations. Her daughter, Odessia Walker, joined Bro. Anthony Robinson in singing Lucille’s heartfelt request, “Pray for Me.”
Moved by the outpouring of love, Lucille said,
“I never knew that so many people cared for me… I will be forever grateful for what has been done.”
Passing
Three years later, on November 5, 1997, Lucille Walker Rigsby passed away at the age of 74. She was laid to rest in the Evans Cemetery, resting among generations of the Rigsby and Evans families.
Legacy
Lucille is remembered as a woman of grace, humility, and steadfast faith. The appreciation service held during her lifetime testified to the profound impact she had on her community. Her legacy continues through her children, grandchildren, and all who were touched by her kindness and devotion.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- 1950 Federal Census
- U.S. Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 1
- The Newton Record, Appreciation for Lucille Rigsby, Wed, Nov 23, 1994 ·Page 22
- The Newton Record, Rebecca Wheaton Walker Obituary, Wed, Jun 10, 1970 ·Page 12
- The Newton Record, Love -Rigsby Wed May 21, Wed, Jun 22, 1988 ·Page 9
- U.S., Public Records Index, 1950-1993, Volume 2
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
- U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
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