Laura Riggins, born on February 11, 1949, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away on January 11, 2026, in Cedar Hill, Texas. She passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the beloved daughter of Charles J. Baranowski Jr. and Estelle Baranowski. One sister Margo Manzo (spouse Frank) along with 8 nieces and 7 nephews. Laura married Dale E. Riggins Jr. in 1977. They were blessed with two children: Russell B. Riggins (spouse Eileen Marie Riggins) and Douglas A. Riggins (spouse Melissa Riggins). Laura also leaves behind four grandchildren, who will forever cherish her memory. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Laura was a graduate of Arlington Heights High School in 1967 and later attended Eastern Illinois University, graduating in 1971. She worked as an elementary school teacher and retired in 2007 after a long and fulfilling career.

Her kindness, love, and dedication will remain in the hearts of all those who knew her. Her optimism and the way she was fully present with everyone she met always inspired them. She was deeply devoted to her grandchildren and brought joy and optimism to their lives.

She encouraged her grandkids through every challenge and gave thoughtful gifts that showed how deeply she understood their interests. She created spaces and memories that will last forever: from personalized corners for each child in the attic of her home to Big Mable boat rides.

Her legacy will live on in all of us. She lived a full life in the eyes of God, and we are so grateful for the way she enriched the lives of everyone she encountered.

As her earthly pilgrimage comes to a close and as she prepares to see our Lord face-to-face, we are all grateful for the gift of her life. Undoubtedly, as a teacher, she touched the lives of countless students and families. She was the most devoted of teachers and continued teaching and encouraging every chance she had.

In her final months and days, she made the ultimate act of love by taking on more suffering so that she might minimize the sadness we are feeling. "Perfect love casts out all fears in our life." (1 John 4:18)

May Holy Mary, the Angels, and all the Saints come to meet her as she goes forth from this life. Those of us still here on Earth will love each other better and more deeply because of her. As Scripture reminds us: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7) She truly did. Please know that she remains alive in our hearts and woven throughout the fabric of our lives.

A Celebration of Life mass is going to be held on February 21, 2026, at Saint Mary's Church, 10 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove, IL. Visitation at 10am with mass at 11am. A luncheon will follow at The Grove Country Club located at 3217 IL-53, Long Grove, IL 60047.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting a small donation to a charity of your choice.

Please leave the family condolences and share memories on this website.

Arrangements under the direction of:

Aria Cremation Service & Funeral Home

1820 N. Belt Line Road

Irving, Texas 75061

(972) 607-4400