Greta Frances Rigell

Greta Frances Madison Rigell, lovingly known as Fran, Mom, and Gigi, was born on October 13, 1943, in Ramona, California. She passed away on January 31, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, creativity, and service.

Fran was born to Verne Charles Madison and Paula Jean Howard Madison. She spent her early childhood in Ramona, CA before moving with her family to Texas at the age of 12, eventually settling in Houston. She attended Spring Branch High School, where she was active in both the school choir and the Spring Branch Methodist Church choir. A gifted singer, Fran performed as a lead vocalist in multiple high school productions and carried her love of music throughout her life, often using her talents to glorify God.

During high school, Fran met the love of her life, James (Jim) Franklin Rigell. After her junior year, her family moved to Columbia, Missouri, where she graduated from University High School. She went on to attend Stevens College for Women and the University of Houston, continuing to share her musical gifts through beauty pageants and performances. Her hobbies included singing, playing the organ and piano, sewing, and crafting.

Fran and Jim were married on November 10, 1961. Jim was serving in the United States Navy, and the newlyweds moved to Hawaii. While there, Fran became pregnant with their first child. Jim was being deployed for 6-9 months so she returned to Columbia, Missouri, in October 1962 to welcome the birth of their daughter, Deborah (Debbie), on November 9, 1962.

After Jim completed his naval service, the family returned to Houston, Texas, where they built a full and active life together. On November 21, 1966, Fran gave birth to their son, James (Jamie) Franklin Rigell III. Fran and Jim shared many passions, including raising horses, trail riding, and beginning in 1973, a lifelong love of motorcycle riding. They traveled extensively and were active members of several motorcycle groups, while faithfully supporting the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation for many years.

Fran lived her life as a devoted Christian and loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her kindness, strengthening her through challenges, and shaping the way she loved others. She served with a generous heart and lived as a quiet but powerful example of Christ’s love.

She was deeply involved in her children’s lives, serving as a Blue Bird and Cub Scout leader and participating in baseball, swimming team, PTA, and the Scarborough Jr/Sr High School Booster Club. She believed strongly in community and lived by the principle that “it takes a village.” Alongside Jim, she was also an entrepreneur, co-owning Jamie’s Ice Cream and Sandwich Shop in the Klein/Spring, Texas area.

Professionally, Fran built a successful career in accounting and retired as Vice President of Finance from Southline Equipment Company. She was immensely proud of her work and her family.

Fran was preceded in death by her parents, Verne C. Madison and Paula J. Howard Madison; her beloved husband, James F. Rigell; and her brother, Chuck Madison.

She is survived by her brother, George Madison and wife Lori Madison, daughter, Deborah (Debbie) Rigell Ivey and husband Rick Ivey; her son, James (Jamie) Franklin Rigell III; her grandson, Blake Ivey and wife Heather Ivey; her granddaughter, Kelley Ivey Sandlin and husband Michael Sandlin; her great-grandsons, Nick Sandlin and Lyndon Sandlin; and numerous other relatives and cherished friends.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4

Above all, Fran was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She will be remembered for her beautiful voice, her unwavering faith, and her deep love for her family. Her family finds peace in God’s promise:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Fran now rests in the eternal presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, whom she loved and served all her life.

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints” – Psalm 116:15

A visitation will be held on February 5, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Earthman Resthaven, located at 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060. The funeral service will follow on February 5, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at the same location.

A committal service is scheduled for February 5, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm at Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home & Cemetery, 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060.