Our beloved mother, Elizabeth Ann Riggle (née Ison), 82, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and formerly of Key Largo and Lake City, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, after a brave battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born in England to Irene and James Ison, Elizabeth immigrated to the United States as a child and grew up in Dearborn, Michigan. She was a proud graduate of Edsel Ford High School and went on to attend Wayne State University, where she earned her degree in special education. Elizabeth dedicated her early professional life to teaching, treating each and every student as her own. Later, she transitioned to a second career as a child welfare investigator, continuing to protect and support vulnerable children.
Beyond her professional life, Elizabeth’s warmth radiated to everyone she met. She possessed a quick-witted sense of humor, a lifelong love for music and reading, and an incredible mind—she knew every plant, bird, and recipe there were. Above all, Elizabeth’s greatest joy was her family, to whom she gave her unconditional love, wisdom, and support.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and James Ison, and her late husbands, Michael Roth, Mark Yenner, and Gerald Riggle.
Elizabeth’s legacy of love lives on through her daughters, Jennifer Durham and Rebekah (Richard) Bellas; her cherished grandchildren, Rachel Detter, James Durham, Evan (Becca) Bellas, Ryan Bellas, and Matthew Bellas; and her beloved great-grandson, Joseph Bellas. She is also survived by her brother, James Ison, and sister-in-law, Sherrill; her nephews, Timothy and Chris (Vickie); her niece, Sarah; her best friend since college, Thaylia Moore; and many loved great-nieces and great-nephews, as well as a host of extended family, former co-workers, and dear friends who will miss her light daily.
Service Information
Celebration of Life: A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be September 6th at Matthaei Botanical Gardens from noon until 3pm.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Elizabeth’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association.
One Response
My friend, my travel buddy and wonderful person just to be with.
Elizabeth brought me into her family as one of her own for the past 52 years. I think of her everyday.