Jack Ridley

Jack Brice Ridley, 94, of Carterville, passed away Monday, April 4, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his family.  

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 9, 2022, at Crainville Baptist Church, with Pastor Cody Knapik officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Crainville Baptist Church.

Jack was born May 14, 1927, in Carterville, to Claude and Reba (Stover) Ridley. He married Sue Rich on December 27, 1952, in Crainville. Together they shared 69 wonderful years.

Jack is survived by his wife, Sue Ridley; sister-in-law, Sally Rich; nieces and nephews, Randy (Linda) Ridley, Laura (Dick) Dobkins, Ron (Jeanne) Ridley, Sue Ellen Rich, John (Debby) Rich, and Debbie Rich; plus many great nieces and nephews, and a multitude of former students and many friends.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; a beloved aunt, Eva Stover; a brother and sister-in-law, Claude and Ann Ridley; sister-in-law, Rae Rich; brothers-in-law, Sam Rich and Jack Rich; and nephews, Bryan Ridley and Steve Rich.

He was called to duty and honorably served our country in the United States Navy during WWII. Jack used his incredible musical talents while in the service and played the piano for Church services for soldiers.

Jack was an educator who taught elementary school music in Carterville, Marion, Creal Springs, Pittsburg, Washington, and Jefferson schools. Even throughout his retirement years, Jack was greeted by many of his former students with a “Hello, Mr. Ridley, do you remember me?” and then shared a memory of their days as one of his students. Jack was also a professional piano accompanist at SIU and John A. Logan.

He was known in the community for his amazing musical talent and literally played for hundreds of weddings, funerals, and community events.

Jack was best known as a pianist at Crainville Baptist Church, where he faithfully served over 66 years. He also served in many other roles and offices over the years including, Deacon, Sunday school teacher, accompanist for children’s Sunday school and Bible school, secretary for the children’s department, and served on the church music committee for many years.

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