James D. Riggs

James Dewey Riggs, affectionately known throughout his life as Jimmy or J.D., passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026, in Sorrento, Florida, at the age of 79. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, law enforcement officer, community leader, golfer, and friend, Jimmy lived a life defined by service, friendship, laughter, and an unwavering love for his family.

Born on February 7, 1947, in Beckley, West Virginia, Jimmy was the son of the late James I. Riggs and Rosa L. Riggs. He later made Delaware his home, where he built a distinguished career, raised his family, and established friendships that would last a lifetime.

Jimmy graduated from William Penn High School with the Class of 1965, where he was well known on the wrestling mats and football field. Following high school, Jimmy proudly served in the United States Army. At the age of 21, he entered the New Castle County Police Academy and soon began what would become a remarkable career with the New Castle County Police.

During his 20 years of service, Jimmy built a reputation as a dedicated police officer and experienced many memorable moments throughout his career. Among his notable cases was his involvement in a major 1981 marijuana seizure valued at more than $900,000 at the time. Jimmy retired from the New Castle County Police in 1989, but retirement did little to slow his commitment to his community.

Following his law enforcement career, Jimmy became a partner at Brantwood Golf Club, where he combined his love of golf with his passion for helping others. He became known for hosting charitable golf outings and supporting organizations and causes throughout the community.

Jimmy later served as Director of the Police Athletic League at Garfield Park, continuing his commitment to public service and making a difference in the lives of young people and families. He eventually returned to one of his greatest passions—the golf course—serving as General Manager of Frog Hollow Golf Club.

After years of service and work in Delaware, Jimmy decided it was finally time to retire and move to Florida. There, he met his wife, Grace, and together they spent the last five years filling their lives with adventures, memories, laughter, and a life well lived. Even in retirement, Jimmy could not stay away from the golf course or his community for long. He continued doing what he loved while working at RedTail Golf Club and remained active in serving those around him.

Jimmy’s dedication to service extended far beyond his professional career. He was a lifelong member and past president of the Delaware Police Chiefs Foundation, a member of the Delaware State Fraternal Order of Police, a 50-year member of St. John’s Lodge, a 32nd Degree Mason and Shriner, and a life member of Stahl Post #30 American Legion.

For all of Jimmy’s professional accomplishments and community involvement, the roles he cherished most were those within his family.

Jimmy leaves behind his wife, Grace, of Sorrento, Florida; his sister, Barbara Riggs; his son, Michael Riggs, and his wife, Sarah; his daughters, Jamie Senn and her husband, Brad, and Devon Di Bernardo and her husband, Connor; and stepdaughter Lanelle Hulstedt and her husband, Rob. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren: Noah, Asa, Ayla, Alexis (John), Bradley, Parker, Memphis, Teagan, and Taylor. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, along with countless friends whose lives were made better simply by knowing him.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rosa Riggs; his brother, Thomas “Tommy” Riggs; and his sister, Brenda Moore.

When Jimmy wasn’t serving his community or spending time on a golf course, you could often find him watching his beloved New York Yankees, relaxing in his recliner with his faithful dog Bailey nearby, enjoying a good cup of black coffee, or providing endless encouragement and support to his children and grandchildren.

Those who knew Jimmy knew there was rarely a dull moment when he was around. He was a storyteller who always seemed to have another story to tell. He was quick to make a friend, always ready with a joke, rarely forgot a name, and was forever full of surprises. Whether someone knew him for decades or had just met him, Jimmy had a way of making an impression.

Above all else, Jimmy loved his family. He celebrated their accomplishments, supported them through life’s challenges, and took tremendous pride in his children and grandchildren. His stories, humor, friendship, generosity, and larger-than-life personality created memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Jimmy made an everlasting mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to know him, and he will be immensely missed by all who loved him.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, 815 Justison Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, where Jimmy’s life will be remembered, his stories will be told, and condolences and memories can be shared with his family and friends.

Burial services will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, Delaware 19720.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in Jimmy’s honor to the Delaware Police Chiefs Foundation, 1783 Friends Way, Camden, Delaware, or to the Delaware Fraternal Order of Police Foundation, c/o Jon Yard, P.O. Box 981, Newark, Delaware 19714.

Jimmy spent his life serving others, making friends, telling stories, playing golf, loving his family, and finding reasons to laugh along the way. While his presence will be deeply missed, the stories—and there are certainly many—will continue to be told.