“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” — 2 Timothy 4:6-8
Elder Frank J. Ridley, of Suffolk, Va., answered the Master’s call and entered into eternal rest and peace on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 in Sentara Obici Hospital. He was born on Dec. 21, 1934 in Nansemond County to the late Mr. Willie Ridley and Mrs. Martha Givens-Sewell, who predeceased him.
Frank worked as a machine operator at Peanut City Scrap Metal and Ironworks and later retired after 39 years.
He was a member of Prayer Mission Baptist Church, of Smithfield, Va., where his pastor was Prophet Spincil L. Goodwin. While a member at the church, he served as a pastor’s aide for many years. He also sung with the “Prayer Mission Brothers.”
Frank is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mrs. Melvina Ridley; his grandchildren, Ashleigh R. Bronner, Michael L. Bronner and Asia D. Jones; great-grandchildren, Jenelle and Akira; sisters, Rebecca Ridley, Winifred Robinson, Martha Worrell; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Elder Ridley will be on view from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday, May 22 at the funeral home. A service of remembrance will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 23 in the Rev. Melvin R. Chapel at the funeral home, and he will be laid to rest at Carver Memorial Cemetery.
Professional funeral arrangements are entrusted to T.E. Cooke-Overton Funeral Home, Inc.