Thurston "Wayne" Riggan

Thurston “Wayne” Riggan, 67, of Benton, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2026, surrounded by those he loved.

Wayne was born on December 4, 1958, in Malvern, Arkansas, to the late Bryan Thurston and Nancy Janet Riggan. Throughout the years, he worked as both a welder and a mechanic, but his love for working with his hands never really stopped. He especially enjoyed tinkering with vehicles, particularly older models, and was always happy to lend a hand when family needed help with their cars.

Wayne was a quiet, gentle, and easygoing man who found happiness in the simple things. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and watching NASCAR, but above all else, he loved his family. He was especially proud of his grandchildren, and being their PawPaw was, without a doubt, his greatest accomplishment. His love for them was something he carried close to his heart, and the memories they shared will be treasured for years to come.

Wayne shared 16 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Tracy Riggan. He also leaves behind his children, Brandon (Hollie) Riggan, Tara (Samantha) Benedetti, Courtney (Houston) Riggan, Stefani Riggan, and Elizabeth (Alex) White; his grandchildren, Isabella Smotherman, Austyn Riggan, Mya Sims, Sophia White, Zaeden Benedetti, Leon Hinojosa, Penelope Hinojosa, Jordan Johnson, and Evelyn Johnson; his brothers, Kenny (Sharon) Riggan and Billy (Renee) Riggan; and his sister-in-law, Linda (Scott) Davis. He also leaves behind many other close family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Though Wayne may not have been a man of many words, his love was shown in the things he did, the help he offered, and the time he spent with the people who mattered most. He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and a lifetime of memories that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

The family welcomes friends and loved ones to stop by their home at 3913 Sandra Lane, Benton, AR 72019, to visit, share memories, and offer condolences.

The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice for the care, kindness, and compassion shown to Wayne and his family.

A celebration of life visitation will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas 72015.