Michael John Riggall

Michael John Riggall of Atlanta died at home on September 14, 2021 following a decades-long, courageous battle with cancer. He was 74.

Michael was born in Durham, North Carolina and the following year moved with his parents to Atlanta, where he resided most of his life. Michael attended Atlanta Public Schools, graduated from Dykes High School, and attended Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. Enlisting in the U. S. Army, he trained as a military photographer and served in that capacity at Camp Zama in Japan. While in Japan, he traveled around the country and developed an enduring love for Japan. Following military service, Michael returned to Atlanta, graduated from Georgia State University, and established a successful commercial photography business in Midtown. His experience in the Army was the beginning of a long, successful career. He traveled around the world twice on photographic shoots. He photographed a number of well-known people, including Haile Selassie; several U.S. Presidents, governors, and other political figures; and numerous legal and business people.

A man of eclectic interests, Michael loved films, music, fine food, and traveling the world with the love of his life, his wife, Jeanne. They had a special affinity for Venice, which they visited many times, and he photographed during all four seasons. During the 2019-2020 concert season, his Venice images were displayed at Spivey Hall, an institution that he and Jeanne loved and supported. Michael was also a devoted art collector and a supporter of many charitable causes and candidates for public office.

Michael had an incredible memory for many details including who produced or starred in a movie years ago; the origin of an obscure quote; the history of Atlanta; his experiences from high school and Army days; and numerous other trivial and non-trivial facts. Members of his family encouraged him on many occasions to try out for Jeopardy! certain that he would join the ranks of Jeopardy! Champions.

In addition to his beloved wife Jeanne, Michael is survived by two brothers: Steven Riggall MD (Gail) of New Wilmington, PA and Chris Riggall (Kitsie) of Atlanta; and nephews Forrest, Nick, Chart, and Hunter; brother-in-law Robert Reichelt of Irving, TX; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Linda DiSantis and Bob Kerr of Atlanta.

A memorial service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Michael’s favorite charities: Dooley Intermed International ( ); RHF-Alzheimer’s Research 640 Jackson Street, MS 11202C, Saint Paul, MN 55101 ( www.healthpartners.com/donate/fightmemoryloss ); or Redeemer Lutheran Church, 731 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta, GA 30308 ( ) or to the charity of your choice.