Basil Rigney of Snellville passed away August 2, 2014, at the age of 79. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State College and his Master’s in Music Education from the University of Georgia. Mr. Rigney owned and operated Great Republic Insurance Agency in the early 80’s. In the summer of 1985, he served as the music instructor and director of Jazz Ensemble and Symphonic Band at Governor’s Honors Program, in Valdosta. He served as band director for many schools across the state, with the majority being in Newton County. Among his many accomplishments, Mr. Rigney was awarded ‘Star Teacher’ at Newton County High School, received a Certificate of Distinction from the Governor’s Honor Program and was a member of Phi Beta Mu – a bandmaster fraternity. He was loved by his family, as well as his students, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Stephen Rigney and his parents, James Isaac and Maymie Rigney.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Gloria Willis Rigney; son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Tracie Rigney; grandchildren, Brittany, Mackenzie and Maci Rigney, Alex Gable, Julia and Stephen Rigney; great-grandson, Emory; brothers and sisters-in-law, James and Ingrid Rigney, Bruce and Alice Rigney; niece, Scheryl; nephew, Dennis and his wife, Diane; great-niece and nephews, Kristen, David and Ken.
Funeral Services for Mr. Rigney were held Tuesday, August 5, 2014, 11 a.m., at The Church of the Good Shepherd, 4140 Clark Street, in Covington, with Rev. Edwin Beckham officiating. Interment followed in Lawnwood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests contributions in his memory be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – Georgia Chapter, 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 550, Atlanta, GA 30346; The Church of the Good Shepherd; or another charity of one’s choice.
Mr. Rigney’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the entire staff of Embracing Hospice, and especially his caregivers, Roselyn, Jane, Paula and Junise.
www.caldwellandcowan.com to place online condolences 770-786-7062
