Dr. Rev. MaryLou Riggle

Rev. Dr. MaryLou Riggle, a dedicated missionary and devout believer, peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior on November 5, 2023. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and faith that will forever resonate within the hearts of those she touched. Born on April 26, 1938, to the late Glen and Christena (Souther) Riggle, MaryLou lived a life filled with purpose and devotion.

MaryLou's calling led her to spend almost 40 years as a missionary in Central and South America. Her unwavering commitment to spreading the word of God ignited hope and transformed countless lives along the way. During her remarkable tenure, she served as a professor and as the Academic Dean at the Nazarene Seminary of the Americas in San Jose, Costa Rica. For a time, she also served as District Superintendent. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping the minds and hearts of future ministers who would go on to make a profound impact themselves.  Her guidance and infectious enthusiasm encouraged others to embrace their faith fully.

Despite her many achievements, MaryLou remained humble and devoted herself to simple pleasures that brought her joy. A lover of books, she could often be found immersed in a captivating story or engrossed in a thought-provoking devotional. As a member of the Friends of the Library program, Mary Lou shared her passion for literature by diligently cataloging and alphabetizing each book she read—a testament to her meticulous nature.

MaryLou drew strength from quiet moments spent in introspection with God. These reflective periods allowed her to deepen her faith further and seek solace during challenging times. Her unwavering commitment to living out her beliefs was exemplified through various roles within Urbana Church of the Nazarene. As an ordained elder and longtime member, MaryLou taught Sunday school courses, skillfully led the Grief Share program, assisted in the church office and served as the Missionary President. Her dedication and servant heart were an inspiration to many.

MaryLou pursued knowledge with unyielding determination, and her education was extensive. She earned a doctorate of Theology degree—a testament to her intellectual curiosity and her desire to continually grow in wisdom and understanding.

MaryLou's passing leaves a void in the lives of those who loved her the most. She will be deeply missed by her surviving family members: Walter (Beva) Riggle, her dear brother; Alice (Joe) Thompson, her beloved sister; Solomon (Jan) Thompson, Kevin (Cheryl) Riggle, Tamela (Scott) Wendling, Holly (Jeremy) Dixon, Monica Schaffner, Michelle (Dustin) Cabassa, her cherished nephews and nieces; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; one great-great niece, and several cousins.

A visitation to honor MaryLou's life will take place on November 18, 2023 at the Urbana Church of the Nazarene located at 1999 E. State Route 29 in Urbana, Ohio. Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects between 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life service will commence at 1:00 PM in the same location. Afterward, MaryLou will be laid to rest at Oak Dale Cemetery. Arrangements in care of Walter & Lewis Funeral Home. Donations may be made in memory of MaryLou to the Urbana Church of the Nazarene. Condolences may be expressed to her family by visiting www.walterfunerals.com.