James A. Riggleman, age 70, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Thursday afternoon, March 12, 2026, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon.

      He was born August 30, 1955, in Winchester, Virginia, the son of Garland W. and Bertie (Timbrook) Riggleman.

      James was a talented carpenter and loved making things beautiful.  Over the years he had helped to construct many area homes and buildings, including the Village Green Apartments and the Flora Library pavilion.  He enjoyed being outdoors, spending time mowing, gardening, and tending to his flowers.  

      He is survived by his children: Lori (Paul) Tidwell of Clay City, Jesse (Constance) Riggleman of Xenia, Jackie (Edward) Heiden of Bible Grove, and Donnie (Spring) Totten of Mattoon; grandchildren: Charlee (Jared) Eveland, Michael (Jasmine) Heiden, Johnathan (Keri) Heiden, Jordyn Totten, Justin Totten, Jessica Totten, Halen Mitchell, Samantha Neville, Harley Neville, Jacob Campton, Hannah (Brendan) Tidwell, Matthew (Clarissa) Tidwell, Zachory Riggleman, Colby Riggleman, Quinton Riggleman, Brock Riggleman, Gabe Hurst, and Sierra (Bentlee) Jared; 14 great-grandchildren; special friend: Pam Hurst of Xenia; siblings: Rick (Linda) Riggleman of Ohio, William “Peewee” (Pam) Riggleman of West Virginia, and Lisa Haines of West Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.

      He was preceded in passing by his parents; wife: Sharon Ann Riggleman; 3 brothers: Jesse (Diane) Riggleman, and infant twins Harley and Marley Riggleman; and a sister: Elizabeth (Henry) Ludwick. 

      A memorial ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Mike Elliott officiating.  Private interment will take place at a later date in Mountaindale Cemetery near Shanks, West Virginia.  A visitation will be held from 4 until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with final expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com