Elizabeth R. Steadman

Elizabeth R. Steadman, 93, of Kingsport, died April 26, 2012 at Baysmont Health Care Center. A lifelong resident of Sullivan County, she was born April 7, 1919, the only daughter of Hubert L. Riggs and Annie Tipton Riggs. She was a 1937 graduate of Sullivan High School and completed her business education at Whitney School of Business in Johnson City in 1939. She married John A. Steadman in June, 1940, sharing 66 years of marriage together before his death in 2006.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a dedicated businesswoman. She began her business career at Tennessee Eastman Company before moving to First National Bank of Kingsport, as secretary to bank president A. D. Brockman. She also served as office manager and bookkeeper for Riggs Brothers Construction - her brothers' family business - from 1958 until her retirement in 1999. She was a dedicated and active member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, where she served as church treasurer for many years.

Elizabeth never sought attention for herself, preferring instead to work behind the scenes to provide support, guidance, energy and influence to her family and to others. She was meticulous and detailed in all she did, whether at home, at her office or in her church and other volunteer work. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her three brothers - Paul C. Riggs, Jack T. Riggs and H.L. Riggs, Jr.

She is survived by her son, James Steadman and wife Andrea of Olive Branch, Mississippi; five grandchildren - Abigail Jacobi and husband Jordan of St. Francis, Wisconsin, Elisabeth Steadman of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Sara Emily Steadman of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, Gavin Steadman and Grace Steadman, both of Olive Branch; two great-grandchildren - Fletcher Jacobi and Samuel Jacobi; one cousin, Medford Riggs of Roanoke, VA; and many loving nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday April 29, 2012 at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church followed by a funeral service at 4 p.m., with Rev. Dale M. Gilbert presiding. Graveside service will be Monday at 11 a.m. in Oak Hill Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Eddie Williams, Carl Childress, David Riggs, Dwight Riggs, Joe Steadman, Corky Steadman and Fred Childress.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Steadman Hill for their care, compassion and love in making the facility her home for the past seven years, and the staff of Baysmont Health Care Center for their assistance and care during rehabilitation visits and her final days.
Memorials may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church.