Heather Nicole Riggs-Carranza Obituary (1973 - 2022)

Heather Nicole Riggs, better known as Nicole, was born to biological mother Miralee Lopez on May 25, 1973 in Santa Rosa, California and swiftly adopted by eager parents Curtis Riggs Sr and Evelyn Godwin. Together, they raised Nicole in Crescent City, California making every effort to connect her with her native heritage via the Yurok Tribe off the Klamath River. Nicole spent 38 happy years there, however, she still felt something was missing. In 2011, after the passing of her best friend and confidante, her grandmother, Nicole returned to her biological tribe and with great excitement and anticipation, accepted her place among the Muckleshoot community. Professionally, Nicole dedicated herself to tribal work, most recently at the local casino. Heather Nicole took immense pride in her community, wanting only to contribute to its growth and prosperity believing raising the tide raises all boats. Nicole sadly left this world on April 24, 2022 in Auburn, Washington. The void she left is unfillable. Nicole was compassionate, generous, fun, outgoing, intelligent, she loved her husband and her fur babies with all her heart. Nicole was a beautiful person inside and out. She always made sure her loved ones were taken care of. Nicole loved kicking back watching daytime TV especially when it came to Sunday night football. She enjoyed reading and looked forward to learning new things. Nicole loved to be on the road and taking pictures of new adventures she went on! Heather Nicole Riggs is survived by her parent: Evelyn Godwin, husband Edward Carranza, stepdaughter: Brianna Carranza (Nicholas Serrato), grandchildren: Amia Serrato, Avianna Serrato, and Arrius Serrato, and siblings. Preceded in Death by father: Curtis Riggs Sr., and brother Curtis Riggs Jr., and biological mother, Miralee Lopez.