Michael W. Rigby, age 52, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Rigby; his late wife, Heather Rigby; his paternal grandparents, Mary and Chiz “Pap” Rigby; his maternal grandparents, Julius and Pauline Strozak; and his sister-in-law, Whitney Fisher.

Michael is survived by his loving parents, Claudia (Michael) Rankin; his partner, Kathy Jennings; his brother, Zack Rankin; and Kathy’s children, Kristin (Nicholas) Tully, Kaitlyn Jennings, Kendra Jennings, and Grant Jennings, to whom he was a devoted father figure. He was a son-in-law to Paul and Shirley Fisher, and Glenda and Gary Ketterman; a brother-in-law to Shaun and Kyle Ketterman; cousins who were like brothers, DJ Rigby and Kenneth Rigby; as well as many other relatives, dear friends, and the many beloved furry companions he cared for throughout his life.

A 1991 graduate of Westmont High School in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Michael went on to graduate from Austin Peay State University in 1999, where he was a proud member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He spent many years working in the grocery industry, where he organized numerous charitable food drives, reflecting his servant’s heart and dedication to helping others. Most recently, he was employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Michael was an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed watching games on television and listening on the radio, especially cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played multiple sports throughout his school years, including hockey, basketball, soccer, and football.

Above all, Michael adored his family and friends and will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those he loved.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 9:30am to 11:30am at Hendersonville Funeral Home and the memorial service beginning at 11:30am. Interment will follow in Hendersonville Memory Gardens.