Jo Riggleman Miller

Born on June 12, 1937, in Cumberland, Maryland, Jo was raised in Petersburg, West Virginia. Given the name Fanny Joe Riggleman at birth, she chose to go by her middle name, Jo, dropping the “e” from her parents' unusual spelling for a female—a reflection of her independent spirit that would define her life. Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles David Miller, whom she married on June 12, 1968. Their years together, though far too short, were filled with love and partnership. She is survived by her devoted children, Chuck Miller (spouse, Christina Whitlatch) and Tammy Schubart (spouse, Ryan Schubart); her cherished grandchildren, Maxwell Schubart and Harrison Schubart; and her treasured late granddaughter, Ruby Miller, who remained forever in her heart. She is also survived by her brother, Oscar Hampton Riggleman II (spouse, Jennifer Gerstel Riggleman); her niece, Rebecca Shakespeare (spouse, Aaron Shakespeare) and their daughters, Bailey and McKenzie; and her nephew, Brian Riggleman (spouse, Erin Riggleman) and their children, Roman and Vena. Jo was the daughter of Vistaola (Shobe) Riggleman and Oscar Hampton Riggleman, both of whom preceded her in death. A proud graduate of Petersburg High School, Jo continued her education at James Madison University (then Madison College), where she earned both her bachelor’s degree in business education and her master’s degree in education. She dedicated her professional life to teaching, working in school systems across Baltimore, Maryland; Norfolk, Virginia; Bridgeport, West Virginia; and Shinnston, West Virginia. She later served as an administrator at the Adult Education Center at Salem University. Throughout her career, she taught subjects such as business accounting, typing, and shorthand—equipping generations of students with practical skills and confidence. Jo was a woman of deep faith and service. She was an elder at Bridgeport Presbyterian Church and later at Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church. She also volunteered with the Clarksburg Mission, quietly giving her time and energy to those in need. She will be remembered for her kindness, quick wit, and remarkable resilience. Jo had a distinctive voice and a contagious laugh that could brighten any room. She had a rare gift for connecting with others—never hesitating to strike up a conversation with a stranger and making them feel genuinely seen and heard. Above all, Jo was most proud of her family. She devoted her life to her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her world and the source of her greatest joy. A celebration of Jo’s life will be held at a later date. In her spirit, we remember the words she held dear: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.” Jo’s warmth, strength, and love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

Jo Riggleman Miller

June 12, 1937 - March 24, 2026