Dear Mike and Gerry Lynn,
I am sorry to be late sending my condolences, but I was out of town when it was in the paper, and Missy Johnson just told me about the loss of your Mother. I am sorry I wasn't here to pay my respects, but I will continue to lift you before the Throne of Christ. My sincere sympathy, Mary Lou St. John Ridenour
Dearest Eileen: I recall all the happy times we shared: the wonderful parties you had, Fri. & Sat. steak nights and dancing at the Elks Club, the beach trips, traveling around SC taking Geri Sue to the beauty pageants, the intellectual conversations we so enjoyed, the mutual friends we shared, and so much more!!
The world is richer and better because you were here, and is diminished because you are gone. I will surely miss you!!
Gerry Sue,
I recall your mother making many of my costumes. I first met her when you taught me acrobat lessons the precursor to gymnastics. I was only 8 years old and won a talent contest when you choreographed my routine for me. Your mother had enough energy for 100 people.
I know you will miss her.
Vicki Johnson Snelgrove
Mike and Gerry Sue, I guess adding Sue to your name shows that i've known you many years. I rejoice with you on your mom's graduation to Heaven. She was a beautiful, caring and very talented woman. Her costumes were always a treasure to keep. In His Love, Missy Smoot Johnson Class of 1964 Aiken High
I remember Mrs. Ridge as the choir director at the First Christian Church. My parents, Joe N. and Maxine Beckwith. were members of the church for many years. May God bless and take her to her heavenly home. Our prayers go out to her family.
We attended First Christian Church during the years of 1981-1983. I had the privilege of singing in your mother's choir and being mentored by her as a young woman expecting her first child and being a first time mother!
I have fond memories of her exuberance for life. I just happened to be visiting Aiken this week and picked up the paper and read of your mother's funeral. Your mom's commitment to love others as Jesus loves us spurred her on to give her all in everything she was involved in. I pray that her granddaughters will strive to follow in her footsteps. In Him, Sheryl Ortman
My deepest sympathies to Gerry and Mike. I met Mrs. Ridge when my best friend, Cindy, was married to Mike. I saw Mrs. Ridge on many occasions either in Aiken or North Augusta. She kept in touch with Cindy and loved her like a daughter even after the marriage to her son was over. She was one of the most vivacious people I've ever met. She didn't let her caregiving of Mr. Ridge dampen her spirit. She was fun and an inspiration. Mrs. Ridge was a woman of character and I'm glad our paths crossed this side of heaven.
My prayers are with you. I recall so many happy times with Eileen at the FCC in Aiken as Choir Director and as her friend. I loved her dearly. God bless you with peace knowing she is in Heaven with Tom.
Ms.Ridge made my costumes as well and always had a smile. I will never forget her turning the costume wrong side out for me to try it on so she could pin it to fit correctly. We all are lucky to have had her in our lives. My family sends their love and prayers to the family.
Stephanie Allen Harden & Family
Mother Ridge my former mother-in-law was one of the most nuturing and loving people on this earth. There are so many things she taught me which makes up who I am today. I have watched her make thousands of costumes for those beautiful dancers and direct the choir the the Christian church. Her willingness to help and her ability to get things done were second to none. I will miss her dearly and know that heaven will be in order by the time I get there because she is already organizing activities. She was a wonderful mother and wife. She also took upon the job of caregiver when her husband Papa had a massive stroke. Her memory will live on forever.
My thoughts & prayers are with you at this time. I have fond childhood memories of Mrs. Ridge making my costumes. She will always have a special place in my heart.
I was one of the children that for years was measured for costumes by Mrs. Ridge for Mr. Crosby. I remember being amazed by all the ribbons and fabrics in her sewing room. I also remember playing the piano with her; she always said she couldn't make her hands do different things at the same time.
It was obvious to me what a loving and caring person she was just from watching her patiently care for Mr. Ridge after his stroke and happily continuing to make dozens and dozens of costumes.
My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends; may God bless and keep you.
