myrlean rigsby
1942-1943
Life Story
Myrlean Rigsby: A Little Life Remembered
Myrlean Rigsby was born on March 10, 1942, in Newton County, Mississippi, to Vonzia J. Rigsby (1921–?) and Eva Mae (Everdean) Chapman Rigsby (1920–1995). She was born in the City of Union, in Newton County, Mississippi.
Her father, Vonzie Rigsby, served as the informant on her death certificate and resided in Union, Mississippi. Both of her parents were natives of Newton County.
Passing and Medical Record
Myrlean passed away on February 3, 1943, at 7:30 A.M., in Union, Newton County, Mississippi, at the age of 10 months and 23 days. According to her Mississippi State Board of Health death certificate (State File No. 2595), the immediate cause of death was cholera infantum, due to influenza.
Her attending physician, Dr. Z. C. Hagan of Union, Mississippi, certified that he had treated her from January 3, 1943, until her passing on February 3, 1943. A later supplemental inquiry asked whether the influenza was complicated with pneumonia; the physician’s written reply was “no.”
During the early 1940s, childhood illnesses could quickly become life-threatening, particularly in rural Mississippi. “Cholera infantum” was a historical medical term commonly used to describe severe gastrointestinal inflammation in infants, often involving acute diarrhea and dehydration. Such conditions, especially when combined with influenza, were tragically common causes of infant mortality during that era.
Burial and Final Resting Place
Myrlean was laid to rest on February 4, 1943, in Evans Cemetery (Newton, Mississippi RFD). Funeral arrangements were handled by Little & Ware of Forest, Mississippi. The certificate was received by the local registrar on February 4, 1943, and signed by Mrs. C. D. Bilman.
Her small headstone is inscribed:
“Daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Vonzia J. Rigsby.”
A Brief but Meaningful Life
Though her life lasted less than one year, Myrlean’s name is preserved in state records, cemetery grounds, and the genealogical history of the Rigsby and Chapman families. Her resting place among the Evans and Rigsby families connects her to a lineage deeply tied to the Altare and St. John communities of Newton County.
In preserving her story, her family ensures that even a life measured in months is remembered with dignity and care. Every name matters. Every child belonged. And Myrlean Rigsby remains part of the enduring record of her people.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- Mississippi, U.S., Index to Deaths, 1912-1943
- U.S., Find a Grave® Index, 1600s-Current
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