Paula Lee Riggs

Paula Lee Riggs (Simpson), originally from Terre Haute, IN, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2023. The daughter of Frank and Violet Simpson, Paula was an inspiring wife, mother, grandmother and friend with a sharp wit and interests that spanned from books and crossword puzzles to gardening, birdwatching, and museums.

Paula enjoyed a life that took her from Indiana to Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, and then back home again to Indiana in the later years of her life. Paula proudly achieved her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida and her passion for learning was life-long. She was a medical technician, a docent at multiple museums, and even a master gardener.

After college, Paula met and married David A. Riggs, also from Indiana. Paula and David traveled the country while raising a family and contributing to the community.

Paula loved nature and gardening. She found joy in sharing her knowledge of both with friends and family (along with her unmatched oatmeal chocolate chip cookies). While Paula cherished the simplicity of time with her loved ones at home or at the cabin, she was always up for exploring new places and traveling with friends. No matter where she lived or traveled, she would immerse herself in the culture and support the local arts.

Paula was preceded in death by her husband, David A. Riggs, and is survived by her loving children, Andrew (and Melissa) Riggs of Chadds Ford, PA, and Jordan (and Katie) Riggs of Indianapolis, IN. She will be dearly missed by her 5 grandchildren, Olivia, Indiana, Riley, Claudia, and Hudson Riggs.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at St Luke’s Methodist Church (100w 86th St Indianapolis) on June 22nd at 4:00pm with calling there beginning at 3:00pm.

To honor her memory, the family requests donations be made to the Indiana Parkinson Foundation in memory of Paula Lee Riggs.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leppertmortuarynora.com for the Riggs family.