Ernest Franklin Riddle, 82, passed away peacefully at his residence on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
Throughout his life, he was a wonderful example of how a person can touch the hearts of others in so many special ways. Blessed with many talents, a curious mind, and a love for the simple joys of life, he found happiness in doing the things he loved.
Although he lived with autism, it never defined the many wonderful things that made him who he was. He had a remarkable ability to work with his hands and especially enjoyed mowing, repairing bicycles, building model cars and airplanes, and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He became known to many for his talent for fixing bicycles, something that brought him great pride and enjoyment.
Music held a special place in his heart. He loved all kinds of music, and anyone who visited his home could often hear it playing throughout the yard. It was one of the many little things that made him so special and will forever bring a smile to the faces of those who knew him.
His church family was also a very important part of his life. As a founding member of Black Zion Pentecostal Church, he loved being involved and faithfully served in many different ways. Whether playing the tambourine, ushering, or helping record church services, he found great joy in being a part of the church he loved so dearly. His dedication and willingness to help were a blessing to his church family.
He lived a life filled with simple pleasures, special talents, and a genuine love for the things that brought him happiness. Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends will always treasure the memories, the familiar sounds of his music, and the many ways he made life a little brighter for those around him.
He leaves behind his sister-in-law, Sina Riddle; nephews, Mark Riddle (Kathy) and Jody Riddle (Robyn); nieces, Janet Washington (Danny) and Lori Dawn Jones (Richie); great-nephews, Ben Riddle, DJ Washington (Erin), Cody Riddle (Leslie), Jesse Washington (JP), and Gibbs Jones; and great-niece, Nicole Gray (Randy).
He is also survived by his extended nephews and nieces, Brady Gray, Landen Hood, Kaden Washington, Logan Hood, Keegan Washington, Miles Jordan, Gracen Gray, Dalton Riddle, Cole Riddle, Daniella Washington, David Washington, and Raelynn Hood, along with many other family members, church family, and friends who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tommie and Estelle Riddle; and his brothers, Pete Riddle, T.L. Riddle, and Jim Riddle.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Black Zion Pentecostal Church, with Rev. Ben Riddle officiating. Rev. Jody Riddle and Mark Riddle will also share words during the service. Visitation will be held Friday evening from 6-8 p.m. and again on Saturday morning from 9 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in Baldwin Memorial Gardens.
Serving as pallbearers will be DJ Washington, Cody Riddle, Randy Gray, Jesse Washington, Danny Washington, and Richie Jones.
His life was a beautiful reminder that the greatest joys are often found in the simplest things—a favorite song, a job well done, a church filled with familiar faces, and the love of family. Those precious memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
