Harry Edwin Riggin Sr.'s Obituary
H. Edwin "Ed" Riggin, Sr., of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the age of 92.
Ed leaves his family and friends with amazing memories. He will be fondly remembered for his stories, his arsenal of jokes, his love of family, and his overall love of life.
Born in Laurel, Delaware, on March 8, 1933, Ed was the oldest son of Elmer and Elizabeth Riggin (Brumbley). He was a standout football player at Laurel High and played for the University of Delaware his freshman year before joining the Marine Corps. After completing his service, Ed returned to Laurel, where he established an automotive supplies business.
In the late 1970s, Ed relocated to Rehoboth, where he established the iconic Ed’s Chicken & Crabs in Dewey Beach. For 38 years, he was known as “Chicken Ed” to locals, his employees, and his loyal patrons.
Ed was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles but loved sports and games of all kinds. There was ice skating on Laurel Lake and body surfing at Fenwick Island, family ski trips and summer beach days in Dewey, and all hands on deck for a spirited game of Dominoes, Trivial Pursuit, or Gin Rummy.
Ed was predeceased by his parents and his brother, John Riggin; his sons, Eddie (Nancy) and Lyle (Patrice); and his faithful canine pal, Bear.
Ed is survived by his devoted and beloved companion of 46 years, Sarah Botte; his daughters, Deborah Murray (James) and Elizabeth Dorman (Bill Hadder); his son, Jorin Botte; and his gentle canine companion, Grace. He is also survived by his former spouse, June Riggin (Don Hearn). Ed was Pop-Pop Ed to nine grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, and Uncle Ed to his many nieces and nephews — all with their own Pop-Pop or Uncle Ed stories to tell.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ed’s memory to Grass Roots Rescue Delaware at https://www.grrde.org/donate.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
What’s your fondest memory of Harry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harry?
Share a story where Harry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harry you’ll never forget.
How did Harry make you smile?