In a peaceful transition, Marla Rigsby Graham, 54 years of age, made her heavenly move on Sunday, November 12, 2023, in Chattanooga, TN.
Marla was born in Whitwell, TN, on September 9, 1969. She is survived by her husband Phillip Graham and son Acheson Rigsby Graham, Chattanooga; parents, Nancy and Terry Rigsby, Powell’s Crossroads; sister, Terri Lynn Snipes and brother-in-law, Bill, of Chattanooga.
She was predeceased by her grandparents, Edna and Hugh Ridge of Whitwell, TN and Virginia and James R. Rigsby of Jacksonville, FL.
Marla graduated from Whitwell High School in 1987 and met her husband Phillip while both attended Middle Tennessee State University. She graduated with a Criminal Justice Degree and returned to Whitwell to become a caseworker at Johnson Mental Health Center.
Thirty years ago, Phillip and Marla married at Whitwell First Baptist Church. In 1997, she and her beloved sister, Terri Lynne, bought the Tot N ’Teen Shoppe and created an upscale store with over-the-top displays and merchandise. While at the store Marla perfected gift wrapping and selection, making it an art form. Lucky recipients were overjoyed with “A Marla”.
Marla was happiest being the central figure in the lives of husband Phillip and son Acheson. Instead of just dropping Acheson off at the Bright School, she became their volunteer extraordinaire. She continued to use her talents at Boyd Buchanan School. She loved traveling, reading, and camping with extended family and friends at state parks. Another one of Marla’s many passions was shopping with family, finding the perfect Christmas gift, and wrapping it with love as she had such a heart for others.
While Marla’s family grieves for her loss, they are choosing to remember her in a way that honors her spirit. The family invites the community to join them in her Celebration of Life at the Whitwell First Baptist Church, 1970 N. Main Street, Whitwell, TN 37397 on Friday, November 17, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Central time.
Family will receive friends at the church on Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 4:00-8:00 PM Central time and on Friday from 12:00-2:00 PM Central time prior to the service.
The pallbearers are Tony Ridge, Chris Ridge, Logan Ridge, David Sharpe, Clint Barfield, and Mike Czarnecki, MD.
Burial at the Rigsby Family Cemetery in Powell’s Crossroads.
Special thanks to the Erlanger CVICU nursing staff for their impeccable care and concern for Marla.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to the First Baptist Church 1970 N. Main Street, Whitwell, TN 37397.
Arrangements are entrusted by Rogers Funeral Home, 400 Laurel Ave., South Pittsburg, TN 37380 (423) 837-7176.
