Melvin H. Rigdon, a former Dismas Charities Director, died July 2. He was 87. In August 1981, Rigdon served his first stint as the Director at Dismas House II in Louisville. He later was Director of Dismas Charities Louisville. In 1982, when the Diersen center began operation, he was transferred as its Director. During his Dismas tenure, he was appointed State Director of Kentucky for the International Halfway House Association, received a Certificate of Appreciation from the U. S. District Court of Western Kentucky for his contributions to the criminal justice system, and served on the Delegate Assembly of the American Correctional Association. For those who knew Melvin, the accompanying photo speaks volumes about his directness, honesty, brashness, always winning smile, penchant for strict discipline, and kindness. He will be missed.
