J'Leane "Jill" Rigby Petersen

J’Leane “Jill” Rigby Petersen Obituary

May 19, 1925 – June 4, 2026

J’Leane Rigby Petersen passed away on June 4, 2026, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of family, optimism, resilience, compassion and unconditional love.

Jill was born May 19, 1925, to Rulon Robert Rigby Sr. and Veda Adella Merrill Rigby, in Cache Junction, Utah. She had a very happy childhood with her older brother Bob and younger brother Tom. She graduated from Idaho Falls High School and enjoyed attending the University of Idaho for one year, where she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority.

Jill had a long and accomplished career with the US Postal Service, which is also where she met her beloved second husband Pete Petersen. In her last position prior to retirement she served as the Superintendent of Postal Operations for the Clearfield, UT, Post Office.

Jill enjoyed a very happy, active and long retirement. She loved spending time with her sons, grandkids and great-grandkids. She loved Caribbean cruises, trips to Mexico and Hawaii, bowling, and especially bridge. Jill was an American Contract Bridge League “Life Master” and enjoyed many years of friendship and friendly competition playing bridge at the Mt. Olympus Senior Center.

Jill was preceded in death by her husband Parlette “Pete” Petersen; three of her sons Richard, David and Craig Sayer; and grandson Anthony Sayer.

Jill is survived by her son Robert Sayer; grandchildren Stephanie Sayer Long (Ken), Jeremy Sayer, Travis Sayer (Kelly) and Katie Sayer Montenegro (Joe); and her adored great-grandchildren, Ethan and Elizabeth Long; Ashton Sayer; Dylan, Jordan, Ashton and Landon Sayer; and Joey Montenegro.

There is a special wisdom and love that comes from experiencing 101 years, and we are immeasurably grateful for Jill’s life and for all the wisdom and love she shared with us.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 11:00am at Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary, 2350 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City.