Phyllis Ann Rigney

Phyllis Ann Rigney – affectionately known as Mom, Grandma, and Gee Gee – was born on January 24, 1939, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Covington, KY. She was the middle child of the late Francis and Elizabeth (Tretter) Clingner. She attended Holy Cross High School and as a child and young adult; she loved drawing and joyous bike rides with friends to visit nearby horses.

In 1958, Phyllis married James Rigney and welcomed four children into the world – Elizabeth (Becky), John, Jim and Margaret (Mag). At that time, she “retired” from her job at CG&E to become a full-time, loving mom. She was a devoted member of St. Boniface/James Church in Ludlow and shared her faith by teaching CCD classes at St. James. She enjoyed sewing, bowling and reading. More than anything else, however, she cherished being a mom.

Later in life, after her children were grown, Phyllis embarked on a new chapter in life by obtaining her GED and vocational certificates in word, information processing, shorthand and typewriting. In parallel, she continued her “outside the home” career by holding jobs at Shillito’s, United Mail, and Fischer Homes, among others. By far, her favorite and most memorable career was working as a Lost Prevention Specialist in the Theft Prevention department at Shillito’s (later Lazarus). During that time, Phyllis thrived in her career and fostered enduring friendships, including travel partners, that lasted late into her life. After completing her work career and “retiring” for good, Phyllis then embarked on a “house flipping” endeavor with her son John where she completely renovated and then sold the house next door to hers. A project she took immense pride in during her later years. During that same time, Phyllis enjoyed numerous vacations with her daughter Mag, and “rum runs” and lengthy discussions with her daughter Becky.

Regardless of the jobs Phyllis held later in life, by far her true calling was that of Mom. As a mom, Phyllis made nearly every moment of her children’s lives magical. Weekend picnic trips to Mason, OH; evening trips to Coney Island followed by annual journeys to Kings Island; annual vacations to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and her favorite spot – the Ocean Reef in Myrtle Beach… each experience made special and memorable by her touch.

As a mom, Phyllis transformed her backyard into a whimsical space with "Easter bunny" rabbits, ducks, dogs, and turtles, showcasing her unwavering support for the various hobbies and interests of her children. That same backyard served as a “playground” and “farm” with a swing set, swimming pool, corn, tomatoes, cucumbers and more. It didn’t matter how much or how cluttered; Phyllis made it wonderful for her children. And then Christmas – so magical each and every year. The work, effort and sleepless nights that went into making Santa “real” are almost unfathomable to adults today with their own children. And yet Phyllis did it all – selflessly, flawlessly and with the love that only a mom blessed by God can provide. She was always there providing unwavering love, guidance, and support even when her children went a little astray or needed funds and guidance through challenging times.

Phyllis (Mom) was called home December 13, 2023, after battling advanced stage Alzheimer’s disease. Although her home for over 60+ years was in Ludlow, KY, her last residence was the Brookdale Kenwood Senior Living home in Kenwood, OH where she lived for over a year after spending nine months in Raleigh, NC with her son Jim and his wife Kathy. Phyllis was preceded in death by her mother “Elizabeth,” her father “Francis” and her brother “Chip.” She leaves behind to cherish her memory her four children Becky (Tom), John, Jim (Kathy), Mag (Brian); sister Sylvia; Sister-in-Law Charlene; her nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

She will be deeply missed by all who have known her. May her fondest memories come flooding back to her as she is reunited with those who have gone before her and smiles down upon those she left behind.

Services are private and at the convenience of the family. Middendorf-Bullock Funeral Home, Ludlow, is serving the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the donor’s choice of: St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1905, Alzheimer’s Association, 644 Linn Street, Suite 1026, Cincinnati, OH 45203, or the Disabled Veterans (DAV), 860 Dolwick Drive, Erlanger, KY 41018.