Lee Anthony Riggs

Lee retired as a Chief Deputy from the Craven County Sheriff's Department after serving for 44 years. He began his growing career as a jailer at a very young age and then became Chief Jailer at the age of 21. Lee's next accomplishment was completing basic law enforcement training and became a sworn deputy. From there, Lee moved up through the ranks until his retirement. During his law enforcement career, Lee worked part-time in the Croatan National Forest with the US Forestry Service in a law enforcement capacity.

The most important roles in Lee's life were being a husband, father, and grandfather. Lee was married to his loving wife Joyce for 41 years and they spent many mornings together enjoying their "breakfast dates." After several years of marriage, Lee and Joyce had two sons whom they loved dearly. Family vacations were very important to Lee, so he made sure they took trips together. Whenever his siblings needed his help, Lee was there to lend a hand. When Lee was not at work, you could find him in the yard working with Japanese Maple trees, watching Easton and Anderson play baseball, and attending Cub Scout functions with Landis. Those who knew and loved Lee will miss him greatly.

Leaving behind to honor and cherish the life and legacy of Lee are his sons, Griffin Riggs (Lori) and Michael Riggs (Sarah); grandsons, Landis, Easton, and Anderson Riggs; brothers, Douglas Riggs, Gregory Riggs (Deborah), and Randall Riggs (Kim); sister, Pattie Smith; and many loving family members and close friends.

Lee is preceded in death by his loving wife, Joyce Riggs.

The family will receive visitors from 5:00-7:00 pm on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Cotten Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Cotten Funeral Home with Bishop Archie Rivenbark officiating. Following the service, Lee will be laid to rest beside his wife at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses at Bayview Nursing and Rehab for the love and care they provided to Lee.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Lee Anthony Riggs.