Family of Fallen Navy Vet Urges Community Support to Honor His Last Wish After Devastating Valley Fire

The family of Navy veteran Archie “Lee” Wiggins is seeking community assistance to fulfill his dying wish for a military funeral in his hometown of Cadiz, Kentucky. Wiggins tragically died in a house fire last Friday, leaving his family heartbroken and in urgent need of support for funeral expenses.

Wiggins was residing in a house on Exeter Boulevard in the Valley when the flames engulfed the structure. His niece, Carlie Hamon, received news of his devastating loss while she was miles away, expressing her shock and sorrow. “I was in complete shock. I did not expect to get that news that morning,” she said.

In a poignant act of bravery, Wiggins saved his girlfriend and one dog from the fire, but he returned to rescue their second dog. Hamon believes the smoke overwhelmed him, rendering him unconscious. Although he was rushed to the hospital, his injuries proved fatal.

As the family grapples with their grief, they are determined to honor Wiggins’ wish for a proper military service. However, financial challenges complicate their efforts. With no life insurance to assist with costs, they are appealing for community support to cover the expenses of transporting his body and arranging the funeral.

“He’s just really proud to serve his country, and that’s just his wishes, and we’re really trying to uphold that for him,” Hamon remarked, highlighting her uncle’s commitment to his service. The family has established a GoFundMe page to aid in their fundraising efforts for the necessary arrangements.

Hamon reflected on the emotional toll of the loss, particularly for her mother, who has lost her only brother. “It’s going to be really hard, especially for my mom,” she said tearfully. The family’s hope rests on the generosity of the community to help them provide Wiggins with the farewell he deserves.

To assist in their mission to give Wiggins a military funeral, donations can be made through the family’s GoFundMe page.