William H. Riggin

March 8, 1918 - January 17, 2018

WILLIAM HALEY RIGGIN, 99, of Port Norris died Wednesday, January 17, 2018, at the Maurice House under hospice care. Born in Port Norris, he was the son of William P. and Mary Hinson Riggin. Bill resided in Port Norris for 96 years. He would become the fourth generation of Riggin and Riggin, the oyster and clam business started by his great grandfather, Lewis Riggin in 1860. When Bill’s father was elected Sheriff, the family moved to Bridgeton where he met the love of his life, Pauline “Polly” Lesenko. They married in 1940. In 1941, Bill took over the family business. He later merged with Robbins Brothers, creating Riggin and Robbins. He later merged with Gorton’s Seafood which resulted in the building of the Gorton plant in Millville. Since retiring in 1983, Bill remained active with his oyster business William P. Riggin and Son. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Port Norris. His family was one of the greatest joys of his life. Bill was honored as a 2008 Living Legend by the Port Norris Historical Society for his contributions to the community. He was predeceased in death by his wife of 77 years, Polly, who passed away on January 13, 2018. He is survived by his daughters, Barbara Dale Guardiola and Kathleen Ross, his son, William P. Riggin, II (Mary). He was the proud grandfather of Bryan Reiners (Stacey), Christopher Reiners (Beth), Lindsey Gioielli (Anthony), Jonathan Riggin (Lindsey), Rebecca Duncan (Gary). There are 9 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. He is survived by his sister, Jean Comuso and a niece and nephew. Private joint graveside services were held at Overlook Cemetery in Bridgeton. Memorial contributions honoring Bill can be sent to the First United Methodist Church of Port Norris P.O. Box 123 Port Norris, NJ 08349. To email condolences and or tributes please visit www.hoffmanfuneralhomes.net