Jeannette Rigdon

Stoughton- Jeannette "J'Net" Rigdon, age 80, passed away on Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at the Agrace HospiceCare Center. She was born in Vinegar Hill Township, IL on March 1, 1932, the daughter of Albert and Olive (Hilby) Vanderah. J'Net graduated from Galena High School in Galena, IL. On October 4, 1951, she married Donald John Rigdon. Together they made their home in Galena and then in Schofield before settling in Stoughton in the 1960's. J'Net was employed by Stoughton Hospital for 20 years, starting out as a nursing assistant, then helped to establish the S.H.A.R.E. program and then as a certified A.O.D.A. counselor. She continued her service to the A.O.D.A. community long passed her retirement from Stoughton Hospital, working for Dane County Mental Health and Journey Mental Health Center. J'Net was also known for her creative talents and crafts, including sewing and knitting, that started as a practical approach to raising her eight children and became much broader as her talents expanded. She enjoyed the holiday seasons, decorating both inside and outside of her home. Christmas joy was expressed in a tree filled with white lights and memorable ornaments, and surrounded by family. J'Net is survived by seven children, Connie, Cathy (Roger) Rigdon, Candy (Jim) Davis, Tim, Terry (Sheila), Donald and Michelle (Trey) Harrison; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; aunt, Mildred Holland; sister-in-law, Antoinette Stremlow; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald; son, Randy; and great granddaughter. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, August 27, 2012 at St. Ann Catholic Church, 323 N. Van Buren Street, Stoughton, with Msgr. Gerard Healy officiating. Friends and relatives are invited to a luncheon immediately following the services, in Healy Hall. Burial will take place at 2:30 PM on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at St. Michael's Cemetery in Galena, IL. Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Sunday, August 26, 2012 at Cress Funeral Home in Stoughton, and from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass on Monday at church. A special thank you to Agrace HospiceCare Inc. and to Monsignor Gerard Healy.
Cress Funeral Service
206 W. Prospect Street
Stoughton, WI 53589
(608) 873-9244