Wayne Rigney

Wayne was a man defined not by what he did, but by how he made people feel. He brought warmth and genuine enthusiasm into every room, offering kindness, attentiveness, and gratitude freely. He had a way of making people feel seen — whether in a brief passing moment or within his closest relationships — always going the extra step to express appreciation and connection.

He was a one-of-a-kind man. Curious, vibrant, and endlessly engaged with the world, Wayne found wonder in both the extraordinary and the everyday. Nothing was too small to be interesting; nothing too routine to be appreciated. Authentic to his core, Wayne left a lasting impression wherever he went—welcoming, kind, and wholly himself.

That deep love for people carried into his professional life as the founder of Talent Mindset, his Human Resources recruiting firm. For Wayne, it was never just about placing candidates — it was about understanding people, helping them find their path, and creating meaningful connections that changed lives.

He had a distinctive sense of style, always effortlessly cool and uniquely his own…the kind of person who bought a 1700s estate home in Woodbury, Connecticut as his first house, drawn to its New England charm, history, and character.

He found immense joy in the outdoors—seeking out hidden trails and quiet beach paths along the coast, often with binoculars in hand, always ready to pause and take it all in. He was a master creator and inquisitive learner, diving into caramel making, winemaking, gelato making, limoncello making, birdhouse building, and so much more—the list goes on and on.

Above all, he was a devoted and sentimental husband, father, brother, and friend. His family was the center of his world, and he showed his love not just in words, but in constant acts of care and presence. The impact of his love is immeasurable.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents, Judson and Jean Rigney, and is survived by his wife, Debra Rigney; his daughter, Jacqueline Rigney; his siblings, Ken Rigney, Lynn Rigney, and Robert Rigney; his beloved golden retriever, Sofie, who will be waiting for him in the yard with her frisbee; and countless friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

In honor of Wayne, and in an effort to raise continued awareness, you can learn more and support others facing Cholangiocarcinoma via the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation .

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Wayne’s life on Friday, April 17th at Swan Funeral Home 825 Boston Post Rd in Madison from 4:00 to 7 :00, including Word of Remembrances from the family at 6:00 PM. A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 18th at Alder Brook Cemetery in Guilford at 11:00 AM.