Michael Ridgeway

Michael Ray Ridgeway, age 69, of Center Point, Alabama, was loving, generous, intelligent, and funny, but cancer doesn’t care. Mike passed away on August 15, 2023, and got the last laugh, as he is now healed and has walked confidently through the pearly gates. He will be missed by his wife, Debra, who was his sixth grade sweetheart and bride of nearly 50 years. His children, Amy Eastman (Andrew) and Christopher (Tara), have joked over the years that it was annoying that their dad was so good at so many things. They were both honored to consider Michael a dear friend as well as their father. His grandchildren, Audrey, Ashley, Charlotte, and Henry, were his greatest joys and favorite travel buddies. His nieces and nephews were much loved bonus kids. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, PW and Madge Ridgeway; his brothers, Wallace and Jerry Ridgeway; and his sister, Linda Preskitt.

Michael retired in 2019 after more than 28 years with Medical Center East Information Services, later Ascension Technologies. His bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory technology and Master of Divinity allowed Mike to work in various laboratories, own a doughnut shop and decorate cakes, teach children and seniors about Jesus, and keep hospital labs up to date with the latest technology. While he worked behind a computer for the majority of his career, Michael loved to talk and never met a stranger. His favorite topics were his grandbabies and all things Disney. His coworkers have used every excuse to get Mike to bake his amazing cheesecake for office events.

Michael taught us to believe. First, in God. He was very proud of the years he served as children’s minister for Centercrest Baptist Church. He loved singing hymns, going to summer camp, doing magic, and teaching kids about the love of Jesus. Even cancer couldn’t remove “Amazing Grace” from his lips. Second, in Disney magic. Mike almost always wore a shirt, jacket, and/or hat bearing Mickey Mouse. He was a proud early member of Disney Vacation Club and his family has many years of happy memories from Walt Disney World. Mike and Debra honeymooned at Magic Kingdom. Michael officiated at the wedding of his daughter and son-in-law at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion and was slated to do the same for his son and daughter-in-law before Covid changed their plans. Three of the four grandchildren were announced to Mike and Debra at WDW. A Disney cruise to celebrate the upcoming 50th wedding anniversary was just days away when Michael first got sick. Third, in adventure. Mike and Debra enjoyed traveling and exploring both new and familiar locations and encouraged their family to do the same. They visited cities across the country, owned a motor home for a time, and enjoyed half a dozen cruises around the Caribbean. Michael flew with Chris as he got his pilot’s license, and experienced concerts, Disney tours and fancy restaurants with Amy. We are thankful for these life lessons and adventures.

The family will celebrate his life privately. Think of Michael when you read John 15, one of his favorite passages to teach, or when you see a Disney castle. In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Samaritan’s Purse.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutstrussvillechapel.com for the Ridgeway family.