Leonard "Gus" Clarke Riggs

Leonard Clarke Riggs, lovingly known as “Gus,” passed away on November 6, 2026, at Wheeling Hospital. He was born on August 30, 1964, in Steubenville, Ohio, and will be remembered with deep affection for his quirky spirit, his big heart, and the orneriness that made him unforgettable to those who knew and loved him.

Gus graduated from Indian Creek High School, where he also played basketball. That love of the game remained part of the story of his younger years and reflected the energy and enthusiasm he carried through life. He went on to serve in the United States Navy for nine years, an experience that stood as one of his proudest accomplishments. His time in the Navy was a meaningful part of his life, and he took pride in having served his country.

For most of his life, Gus worked at Walmart. Through the years, he built a life marked by dedication, familiarity, and the everyday connections that come from showing up and working hard. He will also be fondly remembered for the personal traits and small joys that made him so distinctly himself. He loved mac and cheese for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and he dearly loved his dog, Blue. Those close to him knew him as someone whose personality could not be mistaken—quirky, warmhearted, and full of playful ornery charm.

He is survived by his fiancée, Sharon Beatty, who shared an important and loving place in his life. He is also survived by his brothers, Ron (Wanda) Diar of Toronto and Eddy (Marilyn) Riggs of Lorain, OH, and by his sister Roberta (Heber) Nelson of East Liverpool. May they carry forward the many memories of Gus, from his humor and habits to the love he gave in his own unmistakable way.

He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Riggs; his mother, Grace Riggs; and his sister, Sandy (Charlie) Caras, and one brother Lory Arthur Riggs.  As his family and friends mourn his passing, they also celebrate a life that was uniquely his—steady in work, proud in service, spirited in personality, and full of the simple things he loved most. 

Schuetz Funeral Home is assisting the family. 

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