Jack Riggs never could have predicted that a chance meeting in college would lead to 62 years of marriage, three daughters, and a lifetime devoted to faith, family, and education. But that’s exactly what happened when he met Joyce, the woman who would become his wife the day after they both graduated from Taylor University.

“We graduated one day, got married the next,” Jack said with a chuckle. “No time wasted.”

That decision set the course for a life filled with ministry, teaching, and a shared commitment to shaping young minds. From pastoring in a small Ohio town to spending 40 years as a professor at Cedarville University, Jack built a career that was more than a job—it was a calling. And through it all, Joyce was right there with him, first as a teacher and later as a librarian at Cedarville.

A lifetime of faith and teaching

Jack always had a passion for teaching the Bible. Even when he was pastoring in northwest Ohio, he felt drawn to education, believing that ministry and teaching went hand in hand.

In the back of my mind, I always thought maybe someday God would lead me to teach at a college,” he shared. “And eventually, He did.”

After earning his doctorate, Jack joined the Bible department at Cedarville University, where he taught Old Testament and theology courses for four decades.

“I loved working with students and helping them prepare for whatever God had in store for them,” he said.

Meanwhile, Joyce balanced teaching elementary school while raising their three daughters. When the time was right, she transitioned into a role as a librarian at Cedarville, immersing herself in the university community alongside Jack. Their life revolved around faith, learning, and the simple joy of supporting each other.

Moving forward with community

After retiring in 2007, Jack and Joyce remained in Cedarville, enjoying a quieter pace of life and visits from their growing family. But as time passed, they knew they’d eventually need a place that offered more support.

In 2017, they moved to 10 Wilmington Place, where Jack has since built a new chapter filled with friendships, activities, and, most importantly, faith.

Though Joyce passed away a few years after their move, Jack has found comfort in the close-knit community at 10 Wilmington Place.

“There’s a family spirit here,” he said. “The residents, the staff—it’s just a good place to be.”

Jack stays busy with exercise classes, book discussions, and even a bit of Wii bowling, but his favorite activity is leading the weekly Bible study.
"I really enjoy it,” he said of the Bible study. “It’s something that keeps me engaged and connected with others who share my faith.”

A place to belong

Seven and a half years after moving in, Jack still feels right at home.

“Other places were nice, but we always came back to 10 Wilmington,” he said. The welcoming atmosphere, strong community, and opportunities to stay active have made it the perfect fit.

As he reflects on a lifetime of teaching, ministry, and family, Jack remains grateful for the journey that brought him here. “I’ve been blessed,” he said simply. “And I’m right where I need to be.”

Would you or a loved one thrive in an active and welcoming senior living community? Schedule a tour of 10 Wilmington Place today!