Rufus Wardell Piggott, lovingly known as “Boogie” passed away on August 4, 2022. He was born on May 3, 1938, to the late Cornelia and William Garland Piggott in Croaker, VA. He grew up in a loving family of grandparents, parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. They gave him the nickname of “Boogie” which has stuck with him his whole life.
On May 10, 1969, Rufus married his sweetheart, Janice Patterson. They set up a house in Williamsburg where Rufus enjoyed working out in his garage and gardening. He also enjoyed crabbing and fishing. His favorite sport to watch was boxing. When he would watch it, he would make the movements as if he was in the boxing ring. He was a happy person and made friends everywhere he went. He loved life and had a wonderful sense of humor. He loved his family and looked forward to traveling every year on vacation with them.
Rufus will be remembered for his love of his cars and trucks. He made sure and always kept his ride clean. He could always be found cleaning his vehicles most weekends. He will also be remembered for his love of his job working at the Governor’s Palace for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. He worked there for forty-six years before retiring.
Rufus was a lifelong member of Shiloh Baptist Church and was a member of the Men’s chorus, the Pastor’s Aid, and the Trustee Board. He loved his church, church family, and the Croaker community. Even though he lived in Williamsburg, he would travel to Croaker to visit relatives weekly.
Rufus is predeceased by his son, Derrick Piggott, and grandparents, Roland and Gracie Piggott.
Rufus is survived by his caring wife, Janice; daughter, Wanda Watson (Troy); grandsons, Miles Watson and Shemar Simons; granddaughter Maya; sisters, Carolyn Foster (Clyde) and Diane Braxton (Herman); nieces, Sharon Marsh (Reno) and Katrina Wise (Brian); nephews, Ross Foster and Derwin Braxton; best buddy, Oscar Howard; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends that are so close to his heart as if they are family.
A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, August 11, 2022, at Whiting’s Funeral Home. Livestream will be available at the beginning of the service. Interment to follow in Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery. Mr. Piggott may be viewed on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Facial coverings are required.
Professional services entrusted to the staff of Whiting’s Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com
