Lela Biggerstaff

Lela Faye Biggerstaff, 82, passed away while being comforted by family and friends on December 23, 2023.  Lela was born to Jerman and Beulah (McIntosh) Pedigo on June 27, 1941, in Indianapolis, Indiana. 

Lela started her “work” life at the young age of 14.  She had several different jobs before she went to work for Herff Jones as a jewelry topmaker for 30 years.

She had many hobbies and interests such as crocheting, needle point, but she was mostly known for her creativity in cake decorating and her pineapple upside down cakes.  She loved cooking homemade meals and eating fresh vegetables from the garden, especially tomatoes.  She also loved playing cards with friends. Any time she spent with family or friends filled her heart with joy.

She was a long-time member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where she served as a Primary teacher for many years.  She poured her heart into these lessons and the children she taught, and she loved every moment!  

Lela was kind and compassionate, she never forgot what it was like to have nothing.  She loved to help those in need.  Her determination and strong-will carry her through many hard times. She had a “grit” about her that was unmatched.  As a mom, she taught responsibility with a side of “no nonsense”, and right from wrong with no excuses.  As a grandmother, she was the best phone call a sick grandchild could make. They knew she would be showing up with popsicles!  Weekends with granny usually meant movies, biscuits and gravy from Hardees, and lots of love and attention.  She adored her grandchildren and her great grandchildren!  She was fiercely loyal to her family and friends. When she wrapped her arms around you for one of her famous hugs, you knew you were safe.  She had a heart of gold that was full of love.

She made her mark on all that knew her. She was truly loved and will be so greatly missed.    

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Alice Yvonne Biggerstaff and her brother Leland Pedigo.

She is survived by her children Gloria Williams (Jamie), Cheri Craig (John Sr.), James Biggerstaff (ReNae); her grandchildren Jason Spencer, John Craig Jr. (Alexia), Ryan Craig, Justin Craig (Megan); and ten great grandchildren.  She is also survived by her brother, Robert Pedigo.

Services will be held at graveside on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Washington Park East Cemetery at 1 pm. Guests are asked to convene at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East funeral home beginning at 12:30 pm before we proceed to the cemetery.