Carolyn Marie Ridgway

Carolyn Marie Ridgway suddenly left this world on July 19th, 2017 at the young age of 66. She was a vivacious, fearless, and loyal wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her memory will live on in those who knew her and were inspired by her thirst for life and adventure.

Carolyn’s life began in the coastal town of Newport Oregon on October 25, 1950 where she was born to mother Elizabeth Alzira Ford and father Clifford Marvin Ford. She lived in the Great Northwest with siblings Dolly Edith, Charles Edward (Buzz), Thomas Miles, Clifford Marvin, Richard Lee, Terry Lynn and Betty Louise until 1984 when family brought her to Texas.

Carolyn had many different things in her life that brought her joy. A few examples are traveling, photography, gardening, and bowling.

Some of her favorite times included spending time with her family. Carolyn looked forward to any reason for everyone to come together where she was always the life of the party.

She often spoke fondly of her reign as the Queen of her Red Hat Society, “Ladies of the Creek” where she met one of her greatest friends, Patty Jo.

Carolyn was extremely proud of her native Cherokee heritage. She enjoyed celebrating this once a month at The Indian Church.

Carolyn is survived by her loving husband Michael Lee Ridgway and their seven children, Jimmy Joe, wife Lana Gayle, Tammy Jo, Brenda Lee, Brian Lee, partner Mark Allen, Casey Lee, wife Lisa Michelle, Leesa Kay, and Carmen Michelle, husband Carl William. In her life she was blessed with fifteen grandchildren, Adrian Allen, James Joseph, Shelby Elizabeth, Kyle Douglas, Kyndal Nicole, Alexander James, Brittnay Michelle, Mathew William-Tyler, Thomas Joseph, Danylle Yhonne, Valarie Kay, Nikki Lee, Charlotte Michelle, Isaiah Micheal, Bella Grace, and two Great Grandchildren, Adrian Allen, and Carson Wyatt.

Although our butterfly has spread her wings, we know she looks forward to welcoming us home. Until then, she will be loved and missed everyday.