Jeanette Rickenbaker Ladson

Jeanette Claire Rickenbaker Ladson passed away peacefully on Friday, July 14, 2023 in her Columbia S.C. home. She will be interred alongside her parents at the Gethsemane Baptist Church in St. Matthews, S.C.

Jeanette was born at Baptist Hospital in Columbia, graduated from St. Matthews High School, attended the University of South Carolina and was married at Ft. Jackson. She moved to Springfield, Virginia where she lived for many years. She worked for the AB&W Bus Company and the Washington METRO at its inception. She retired and moved to Berwick, PA for a time before returning to Columbia.

Jeanette belonged to many groups in Columbia, including the Shepherd Center, the Antique Club, the Camelia Society and enjoyed being a docent for Historic Columbia. She loved the SC Philharmonic and was a lifelong Gamecocks fan. She celebrated her 90th birthday in NYC seeing Hamilton and marching in the Tartan parade. Her last July 4th was at Segra Park listening to the Philharmonic and watching fireworks.

Jeanette is survived by her son, Richard Ladson and his wife, Lisa. Her greatest joys in life were her three grandchildren, Lindsay Ladson Druce (Robert) of Charlotte, N.C., Ryan Ladson of Charlotte, N.C., and Scott Ladson of San Diego, CA.

Jeanette Claire was adored by her family and friends and represented a generation with stories and values we will cherish forever. She will be greatly missed by all.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 29,2023 at Gethsemane Baptist Church, 655 Hammond Cross Rd., St. Matthews, SC 29135, with Rev. W. Henry Cooper presiding. A small reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church.

Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.