Sherrie Ann Riggins

Like the sparkling, bright lights she so loved, Rose Riggins brought a glimmer of hope to the days of many with her kind and caring spirit. Rose had the discerning gift of being able to seek those who needed a caring hug, or a hand held in understanding. She also had the ability to draw the kindness of others to her side. Although Rose didn't speak with words, her love spoke volumes. With Rose, it was pure goodness and matters of the heart that meant the most. For these things and more, she will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of all who came to know and love her.The year 1960 ushered in an entirely new way of thinking within the culture of America. The Vietnam War was at the forefront, and young people made their voices heard. Many found reprieve in the form of drive-in theaters, music of the day, and beloved television shows. It was during these changing times on July 22, 1960 when Bill and Adrien (Gautier) Riggins of Memphis, Tennessee welcomed the birth of their daughter, Sherrie "Rose" Ann Riggins.Rose was brought home to join her older siblings, Mary and John. However, it was soon determined that Rose should receive the care she needed elsewhere. Born with Down's Syndrome and multiple other disabilities, times were much different, and little was known about the extent of her disabilities. At five weeks old, Rose was placed in the care of Russian Nuns at St. Rita's Evaluation Center. Parting with their baby was perhaps one of the most difficult things in the lives of her parents. Before long, Rose came to have three additional siblings when Mike, Jeanne and her youngest sister, Tricia was born.When it was discovered that Rose was unable to learn and be educated in typical fashion, she went to live in an institution located in Montgomery, Alabama at the age of five. Little was known about her time or experiences while there, but by the time Rose was 13, she moved to the Arlington Developmental Center. She remained at Arlington for the next 22 years until the age of 45. Rose lived day to day. She did what was expected, made a few friends, and grew up in the surroundings for which she had become accustomed. At one point in the early 1990s, Rose was named the Queen of Arlington. She wore a beautiful red dress for the festivities, and one of her caregivers even curled her hair. Rose was happy to have her father and sister Tricia in attendance as they celebrated with cake, and a live band.Since the age of 18, Rose enjoyed two weeks she spent each year when her sister, Tricia took her to disability camp. Rose absolutely loved all the fun and exciting times she had as they celebrated Rose's life and the life of the other campers in attendance. Tricia always felt a bond to Rose, and visited whenever she could. When Tricia began dating her future husband, Mike Kramer, they went to visit Rose one day. Rose walked right up to Mike, placed his arms around her, and sat on his lap. As if she could feel his kind heart, she just looked at him. Not only did she have the love of her sister, but in Mike she found a forever friend.Rose had never placed someone's arms around her prior to Mike, and when he and Tricia left that day, he was determined when he said they needed to get Rose out of there. It was Tricia's longtime wish, too. As a couple, Mike and Tricia had a heart for others. In time they opened their own adult family home, offering others the opportunity to be loved with family support and enjoy all that life had to offer . . . and Rose was one of them.Named after their beloved Rose, Tricia and Mike began Rosewood in Clear Lake, Wisconsin. They worked hard to make it a safe, loving environment, and were thrilled when Rose was able to come live with them on November 11, 2005 when she was 45. Huddled in the corner of her bedroom, it took Rose three full months to adjust to her new surroundings. When she finally felt secure, she came out to join everyone for ice cream.Living in this new atmosphere was enlightening for Rose. She was able to experience new things, and began to thrive at Rosewood. An entire new world opened up for Rose. For the first time she experienced going to the ocean, riding a horse and a four wheeler, and even took a helicopter ride. Holding a baby for the first time melted Rose's heart! Unlike the institutions, being part of a family atmosphere seemed to be just what Rose needed. Each day was a new adventure, and she loved every moment. It was wonderful to see Rose bloom.In July of 2007, Rose moved with Tricia and Mike to Sevierville, Tennessee. By now, Rose had adjusted well to her new life. She began working at the Douglas Cooperative Vocational Center, and loved doing new things. Rose made many friends there, especially Henry, a fellow who became her boyfriend. While at the center, Rose celebrated her 50th birthday with a big party, and everyone clapped until she smiled. Another move in January of 2013 found Rose moving with Tricia and Mike to St. Charles, Minnesota where she would remain for the rest of her days.It was easy to please Rose. She loved socks, and could always be found holding one. Her socks gave her security, and she simply liked the feel of them running through her hands. But she was particular about her socks, and they had to be just the right feel and size. Rose especially loved the color red, and was always ready for mealtime. She liked her bed and bedtime, but was truly enchanted with Christmas and sparkling lights. They captured her attention in a remarkable way as she seemed almost mesmerized by them. Rose also loved going for walks and car rides, and always with a favorite sock in hand.Rose knew kindness in others, and had a way of seeking this attribute out in people. Likewise, she also exemplified what it meant to be a caring and kind woman. She seemed to always know when someone needed a hug, or to have their hand held. This uncanny sense charmed her caregivers, and they loved Rose like a family member. Sometimes words get in the way, and with Rose, she communicated in ways all her own. Be it her dislike for something, or an attempt to answer a question, the greatest of these was her ability to give love, and feel loved. Rose came to experience life and lived fully at every opportunity. Deeply missed, she will always hold a special place in the memories she leaves behind.Sherrie "Rose" Ann Riggins, age 54, of St. Charles died peacefully Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at her home surrounded by her loving family, and caregivers who have become a part of her family. She is survived by her mom, Adrien Barnes; five siblings: Mary Maynard (David), John Riggins (Melanie), Mike Riggins, Jeanne James (Steve) and Tricia Kramer. She is also survived by a special niece and nephew, Katie and Daniel Kramer; the whole Kramer family as well as many other nieces and nephews. Rose is preceded in death by her father and her brother-in-law, Mike Kramer who was the first and only father she knew.Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, February 15, 2015 at Hoff Funeral Service in St. Charles led by Funeral Celebrant, Jenny Hoff, with Rev. Mark Pluim and Fr. Kurt Farrell offering messages of hope. Visitation will be held from 12-2 pm. Burial will be at St. Aloysius Cemetery in Elba. To share a favorite memory or photo of Rose, to view her video tribute and to sign her online guest book, please visit www.hofffuneral.com.
Tribute video can be found at: videos.lifetributes.com/568373