Lyle W. Riddle, ADR1, USN (RET)

Lyle Wayne Riddle, ADR1, USN (RET), 87, of Homosassa, FL, passed away on Wed., Aug. 9, 2023 at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital in Inverness, FL. A native of Little Hocking, OH, he was born July 23, 1936 to Homer and Sarah (Hamrick) Riddle. Lyle served his country honorably and proudly in the United States Navy for over 21 years as an aviation engine mechanic and was very proud to have served a unique and rare tour of duty in the Antarctic. Lyle enjoyed a long career with the Water Dept. in Marion, Mississippi, retiring as Supervisor. He moved to Homosassa over 20 years ago from Meridian, MS and was a faithful and devoted 20 year member of Suncoast Baptist Church of Homosassa, where he had also served as Deacon for over 20 years. Mr. Riddle also still held membership and deacon status at First Baptist Church in Marion, MS and was also a Free and Accepted Mason, also in Marion, MS. Lyle’s perfect day would begin with reading his Bible and prayer time. He loved woodworking, spending time with his family, and willingly and unselfishly carrying out his commitments to his church constantly. In addition to his parents, Lyle was preceded in death by his first wife, Julia Riddle, 11 years ago, as well as all of his siblings. Surviving him is his wife of nearly 7 years, Barbara Sue Geer of Homosassa, with whom he spent every day of their marriage making her happy, which he considered his personal loving mission; daughter Pam Jackson, of Homosassa; stepson Ryan Barbazon (wife Rebecca) of Ocala, FL and stepdaughter Kelli Hayes (fiancé Mike Moore) of Homosassa. and his five grandchildren McKenzie, Ty, Caleb, Kerrigan and Hailey. Lyle made friends wherever he went and he cherished those friends; and they cherished him; everyone who knew him will truly miss him. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sat., Sept. 30, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. from Suncoast Baptist Church, 5310 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL 34446 with Pastor Tom Couric officiating. Military Honors will commence first at 11:00 A.M. with the United States Navy and American Legion Post #155 of Crystal River, FL rendering the honors. No flowers please, but instead make memorial contributions in Lyle’s name to Suncoast Baptist Church, 5310 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL 34446. Wilder Funeral Home, Homosassa, FL www.wilderfuneral.com