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Ben David Rigdon, 85, passed away on October 9, 2021 at Bibb Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born on October 10, 1935 in Laurel, to parents, Benjamin Rigdon and Willie Mae Hatcher Rigdon. Immediately upon graduating high school in 1954, Dave attended the Keegan School of Radio Broadcasting and Television and began his radio career in Memphis. He broadcasted in Meridian,  and eventually in Selma. There, not only did he become the general manager of radio station WHBB, he also met and married the love of his life, Betty Mae Donner. They laid roots in Centreville where he opened and operated WBIB Radio. Dave became an esteemed broadcaster, covering historic stories like the Selma to Montgomery marches, and even appearing on the Grand Ole Opry. He also became a respected businessman when he opened Rigdon Jewelry in Centreville. Dave had a heart to serve people and his community. He was a founder of the West Alabama Rehab Center, a member and officer in the Civitan Club, a devoted Gideon, and an elder at Centreville First Presbyterian Church. He was a friend to all and a mentor to many.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Willie Mae. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Betty Mae Donner Rigdon; his two children, Wanda Jones (Luke) and David Rigdon; his three grandchildren, Tia Kiser (Randall), Kendall Kiser (Brandi) and Elisha Rigdon; and his four great-grandchildren, Rex Kiser, Cash Kiser, Zayden Rigdon and Brody Dreher.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 from 11:30 a.m.  until 1 p.m.at Rockco Funeral Home in Centreville, with a graveside service to follow at Pineland Cemetery. Bro. Shannon Allen will officiate and pallbearers will be John Donner, Gary Donner, Jason Donner, Will Alston, Rick Edmonds and Cliff Clemmons. Honorary pallbearers are Bibb County Gideons, members of the Civitan Club, Dr. John Meigs and staff at Bibb Medical Associates, and the staff of Bibb Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Bibb County Gideons in Dave’s name. They can be sent to PO Box 276, Brent, AL 35034.