Rodney James Wiggins (AKA: Wiggy)
Rodney James Wiggins passed away on January 1st, 2024 at the age of 87 with his children at his side – just how he and Fran would have wanted it. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Frances, his parents Harold and Golda Wiggins, and his brother Robert. He is survived by his younger brother, Bill Wiggins, children, Rodney H. (Carrie) Wiggins, Michael Wiggins, Roxanne (David) Spogen, Steven (Stacy) Wiggins, Kevin Wiggins; grandchildren, Rodney H. (Whitney) Wiggins Jr., Jessica Wiggins, Angelica (Pat) Whalen, Kyle (Elizabeth) Spogen, Justin (Katie) Wiggins, Sara (Spark) Hanna, Phillip Klahn, Samantha Wiggins, Rachel Klahn and Gennaro Esposito; 9 greatgrandchildren, with more currently on the way. Also surviving Rodney is his beloved extended Ecuadorian family; Brother-in-Law Giovanni (Mary) Rota nieces Franquita, Gabriela and Carla Rota; nephews Luigi, Sandro and Stefano Rota. Rodney was born and raised in Wolcott New York on December 28th, 1936 until which time he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps on February 21st, 1956 and served Honorably for 5 years. Rodney raised his family in Penfield, NY, moved to Miami, Florida in 1978 and retired in Ocala, Florida in 1995. The Marine Corps refined what was already a great young man into a finely tuned serviceman, with an emphasis on everything the Corps embodied – Honor, Courage, Commitment. Somewhere along the way the concept of punctuality was engrained in him, a trait he became masterful in. Everything Rodney did was incorporated into his inner clock, to include raising his family. The family secret that must be shared is that he really had two favorite children; Rodney Jr. and Roxanne. Rodney Jr. was timed as a perfect birthday present to Fran, just 3 days before her birthday, and Roxanne was also planned as the perfect Mother’s Day gift. What’s puzzling is the unusual timing of the remaining three. Mike was born eerily close to April Fools Day, Kevin 1 day from D-Day and Steve who was born at a time where somewhere in the world it was the day that will forever live in infamy, December 6th. We also think Dad had a hand on his departure, leaving on a day where we will all tip a beverage in his honor every New Year. Celebrate him we will and welcome all to do the same. Rodney was a loving husband and devoted father to all his children where he uniquely immersed himself in the interests of all family members. Whether it was sports on the front lawn, remodeling houses, skiing, flying, shooting skeet, camping, the list is endless. Each child was blessed to have been imparted with memories of his involvement that will reap rewards for generations to come. This is Fran and Rod’s legacy and they are currently looking down, beaming with pride. The entire Wiggins family is incredibly grateful to Haven Hospice of Palatka, Florida for their tireless support, professionalism and compassion for our father and family. We would also like to thank Vintage Care Senior Living for making our Dad feel welcomed, safe and cared for during this challenging phase of his life. He quickly felt at home and enjoyed the entire staff. There will be a remembrance of Rodney’s life that will be held at Vintage Care Living in the coming days.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Rodney’s memory to: Haven – Roberts Hospice Care Center, 6400 St Johns Ave, Palatka, FL 32177. beyourhaven.org