Biography: In Loving Memory of William Wiggs

William Wiggs was born on March 19, 1940, in the Bronx, New York, to the late Lena and William Wiggs Sr. He was the eldest of six children, with three brothers and two sisters.

On May 26, 2026, William passed away following surgery and subsequent medical complications. His passing marks the end of a life defined by dedication, integrity, family pride, and quiet strength.

Growing up in a tough Bronx neighborhood, William was raised by strict but loving parents who instilled in him strong values, discipline, and a deep commitment to family. He attended Grace Gospel Church in the Bronx, where his faith helped keep him grounded and enabled him to serve as a positive example for his younger siblings. As a teenager, William enjoyed playing basketball and later coached the church's junior basketball team. He also loved playing softball in the schoolyard and stickball on the streets of the Bronx.

While attending high school, William worked for Max Schling, a well-known florist in downtown Manhattan. There, he learned the art of floral design, plant care, and arrangement. This experience broadened his horizons, introduced him to new opportunities, and helped shape the polished and dignified man he would become. Known for his impeccable dress and mature demeanor, William carried himself with pride and confidence throughout his life.

After graduating from Taft High School in the Bronx, William began a distinguished career with the New York City Transit Authority. He served as a conductor from 1962 to 1964 before becoming a motorman, a position he held until his retirement in 1990. William took great pride in his work and genuinely enjoyed his years of service. Retiring at the age of 50, he embraced a well-earned life of leisure and enjoyment.

William found joy in many simple pleasures. He loved listening to music, especially the oldies of the 1950s, with Frank Sinatra remaining his favorite artist. He enjoyed watching classic films, particularly westerns, and spent countless hours fishing, walking, reading the newspaper, and solving crossword puzzles. He remained close to many of his former Transit Authority colleagues and treasured the friendships they shared.

A devoted baseball fan, William was a lifelong supporter of the Dodgers. His loyalty never wavered, even after the team relocated from Brooklyn to Los Angeles. He remained a true and passionate fan throughout his life.

On September 20, 1974, William married the love of his life, Lucille Stallings. Their union was filled with love, companionship, and happiness, and they were blessed with a son, William Eric. William also cherished his extended family in Aiken, South Carolina. He loved visiting Lucille's family so much that he purchased a trailer home there to accommodate his frequent stays and enjoy time with those he loved.

One of William's greatest sources of pride was his son, Eric, who followed in his father's footsteps by building a career with the New York City Transit Authority as both a conductor and motorman. William was especially proud to witness Eric marry his beloved wife, Shaniqua Brown, whose kindness, intelligence, and warmth reminded him so much of Lucille. Knowing that his son was secure in both his career and marriage brought William tremendous peace and happiness.

William will be deeply missed by his loving family and all who knew him. His life was a testament to hard work, faith, devotion, and love. The memories he created and the values he passed on will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his son, William Eric; his sister, Gloria Wiggs; his brother, Louis Tyrone Wiggs, and sister-in-law, Loretta Wiggs; his nephews, Anthony Wiggs and Christopher Wiggs; his niece-in-law, Shirmel Wiggs; his nieces, Nicole Wiggs and Angela Wiggs-Jones; his nephew-in-law, Ryan Jones; and a host of loving relatives from Aiken, S.C. and dear friends.

Though he is no longer with us in body, William's spirit, wisdom, and love will remain forever in our hearts.