Louise (Evangelisti) Riggio, 93, of Essex, died on Aug. 30.  She was the wife of the late Joseph Riggio. Louise was born and raised in Old Saybrook and spent her later years in Essex. She and her late husband established Riggio’s Garden Center in 1939, which they ran together until their retirement in 1977, at which time their son Sam took over the business. Even though Louise was retired, she always came in to sweep, and she knew how to wear out a broom. She also enjoyed the outdoors in her gardens and playing golf during her retirement.

After the loss of her husband in 1994, Louise became very active in the senior community with the Sassy Seniors and on her own. She enjoyed going to Chesterfield’s to visit with residents and talk about the old days and to just be a companion to those who didn’t have anyone.

She is survived by her two sons, Samuel and his wife Janet of Deep River and Thomas and his wife Louise of Old Saybrook; four grandchildren, Nicholas, Bethany, Amy, and Tom, Jr.; and eight great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her three sisters and three brothers.

Funeral services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to the Meals on Wheels Program, Estuary Council of Seniors, 220 Main St., Old Saybrook, CT 06476. The Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, Centerbrook, is in charge of arrangements. To share memories of Louise or for more information please visit rwwfh.com.