Steven James Ridgeway, beloved son, brother, and friend departed this world on January 15, 2024, at the age of 61. Born on September 14, 1962, Steven’s journey through life was marked by pure kindness and selflessness.
Steven attended Livingston Elementary School, and he graduated from Marion Franklin High School in 1980. An accomplished athlete, Steven earned a scholarship to play collegiate football, a testament to his love for the sport.
Following a year of college and a stay in California with his brother Larry, Steven enlisted to serve in the United States Navy until being discharged and declared disabled.
Despite facing adversity, he approached each challenge with faith and determination. He enjoyed learning about a variety of topics and was an avid reader of the Bible. Steven was a faithful member of Restoration Christian Center until its dissolve, Steven was known to pray for anyone in need at any time.
As the youngest of his siblings, Steven shared a special bond with his sisters, Brenda, and Jackie. Growing up on Champion Avenue, they were inseparable. Their favorite childhood adventure included riding bikes through the neighborhood on Saturday mornings sneaking apples from neighbors’ trees.
Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Ridgeway, Jr. and Annie B. Jeter; brother, Oscar Lee Ridgeway; and stepbrother, Reginald Freeman. He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Dr. Dorothy Ridgeway James, Johnny Ridgeway, Larry Ridgeway, Louis Ridgeway, Brenda (John) Ward, Jacqueline (Dallas) Matthews, Cathy Lawson, Charles Ridgeway, Clarence Lee Jeter, Jr., Marleen Jeter, Sharon Turner, Gil Freeman, and Lisa Freeman.
In addition to his siblings, Steven leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives, including uncles, Joseph Coleman, Jr., and Rufus Nichols; and aunts, Willa Turner, Lena Washington, Ethel (John) Edwards, Iola Bradberry, Dannye Donald, Bernice Gaines, and Bernice Ridgeway.
Steven James Ridgeway will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the memories he created will forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him. May he rest in eternal peace.
Steven James Ridgeway, age 61. Sunrise September 14, 1962 and Sunset January 15, 2024.
Visitation 11:00 AM and Funeral Service 12:00 PM Thursday, February 1, 2024 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd.).
Interment at Green Lawn Cemetery.
My sincerest condolences to you and your entire family. That video was beyond beautiful. May The Lord God keep you as you say farewell to Steven. May your heart be flooded by the truths you know about God and you trust Him with whatever you’re feeling in this moment of loss. God is able!
To my nieces & nephews,
Our hearts go out to all of you on the lost of your brother. A man that showed everlasting love to all. May your precious memories and caring thoughts of others bring you comfort at this time. Love to all, Aunt Bernice Ridgeway & cuz, Darlene & family.
My condolence to you all! Steve was a wonderful spirit. I pray peace and love to your family. May God truly comfort you! Love Lolita