Barbara Kelly Riggins, of Poquoson, Virginia, passed to a better life in the arms of her family on February 20, 2022.

Barbara is survived by her husband, Fred Riggins; her children Sarah Brown (Kelly), Rebecca Brown (Brad), and Hunter Riggins; her sister, Lynn Kelly Rushdi (Tim); her grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Kenna, and Matthew Brown; Jack, Darcy, and Brooks Brown; Gavin House; Paisley and James Cox; and Cathryn Cox. She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Gail Kelly, and brother, William James Kelly, Jr. (Jennetta).

Barbara was born on April 7, 1945 to William James Kelly and Gail Dennison Kelly. She graduated from Riverside School of Nursing in 1967 and worked with Poquoson City Public Schools for over 43 years doing what she loved to support both students and staff. On February 17, 1968 she married Fred and was a devoted wife, pouring her heart and soul into growing her family.

Barbara wove service through every nuance of her life. She was a devoted Mother, Nana, mentor and friend to the nursing profession, and passionately provided care to her beloved community. Barbara was fearlessly and undeniably true to herself. She loved her monthly bunco dates with friends and could always be found on vacation with her toes in the sand and cocktail in hand.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Newport News, 12716 Warwick Blvd. Immediately following, the family will celebrate Barbara's joyful life and PCPS retirement with friends at the Poquoson Yacht Club from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

The family is grateful for the compassionate care Barbara received at Riverside Regional Medical Center. Special thanks to Dr. Kostov and the SICU nursing team.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Barbara's name to the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas in support of the Bright Beginnings Program or Newport News Relay For Life. Arrangements and heartfelt guidance through Claytor Rollins Funeral Home.

Online condolences to claytorrollins.com.