H.E. “Buck” Riggs, 76, of Batesville, passed away on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in Carlisle, AR. He was born February 4, 1949, in Batesville to Cleo Riggs and Pearl Willis Hill. He enjoyed working with his hands through gunsmithing, creating one-of-a-kind stocks. He was an excellent marksman and taught many people how to appropriately handle firearms. He was an avid hunter and always got the “big” one. Buck loved the outdoors; he could often be found sitting on his porch enjoying the sunshine. Some of his favorite moments were spent sharing meals, stories, sarcasm, and laughter with his friends at the Triangle Café.
Buck honorably served his country as a United States Marine in the Vietnam War, completing two tours. After serving in the United States Marines, he continued his service to the country in the Arkansas Army National Guard for 14 years. His dedication to serving and protecting others continued throughout his career as a respected Independence County Police Officer, Jail Administrator and Constable. He was known for his integrity, commitment, and service to his beloved community.
He is preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Zelpha Dean Riggs; a son, Allen Riggs; and one brother, Eddie Riggs.
He is survived by his son, Thomas Riggs (Donna) of Cabot; his daughter, Rachel Oakes (Matthew) of Ward; his brothers, Robert Riggs of Cushman, Terry Riggs of Wisconsin and Gary Riggs (Rebecca) of Batesville; his sisters, Brenda K. Schmitz of Missouri, Linda Reynolds (Joe) of Arizona, Belinda Burns of Batesville, Barbara Jo Tims of Batesville, Stephanie Stout of Batesville and Phyllis Riley (Tim) of Newark; five grandchildren, Allen Riggs, Bradley Riggs, Keghan Riggs, Ashlyn Frachiseur and Callie Dugger; one great grandchild, Aaron Lee Riggs; along with a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Church in Batesville with Rev. Johnathan Abbott and Rev T.J. Reynolds officiating, with comments by former colleagues, Curtis Goodrich, Dale Weaver, Billy Meeks and Brenda Bittle. Burial will follow in the Combs Cemetery in Melbourne.
Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the church.
Pallbearers will be Gary Riggs, Allen Riggs, Bradley Riggs, Keghan Riggs, Ashlyn Frachiseur and Callie Dugger.
Honorary pallbearers will be Curtis Goodrich, Brenda Bittle, Dale Weaver, Billy Meeks and Dr. Ron Bates.
Arrangements are by Qualls Batesville Funeral Service of Batesville, AR.
