Mary Ridgell

Mary Ridgell, 70, of North Little Rock went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 12, 2020. She was born October 1, 1949 in Magnolia, Arkansas, to Marvin and Roma Hudgens Aubrey.

In her heart, Mary was a teacher.  A 1970 graduate of what is now Southern Arkansas University, Mary was a retired elementary school teacher, having taught over 30 years at Victory Baptist School in Sherwood.  She loved every one of her kids.  Some took more effort to reach than others, but she always strived to bring the best out of every student.  She was a teacher who everyone remembered.  Even when school was not in session, she found ways to love and educate those around her by teaching in Sunday School and Vacation Bible Schools for over 30 years in the churches in which she worshiped.  She was currently serving as a member of North View Missionary Baptist Church in North Little Rock.

She loved her Razorbacks almost as much as she loved the family that surrounded her.  There were many weekend nights where the sounds of Paul Eells, Chuck Barrett, and Mike Nail filled the house while the TV played.

Mary was truly a Southern lady who loved to cook and make people happy with food and conversation, especially her granddaughter.  Katherine held a majority stake in the heart of her “Mamie.”  There are many memories of making pies, cookies, and gingerbread houses.

Mary is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Ronnie Ridgell, of the home.  She is also survived by her son, Jason (Stephanie) Ridgell of Maumelle; granddaughter, Katherine Ridgell; brothers and sister, David (Pam) Aubrey, of Emerson, Arkansas, Linda (Mikel) Talley, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; John (Mary) Aubrey, of Springdale, Arkansas; and four nephews and one niece.  Mary was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws, James and Amelia Ridgell.

A drop-in visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16th from 10 AM – 5 PM at Smith-Sherwood Funeral Home (7700 Highway 107, Sherwood, AR).  A private family graveside service will be held at the New Holly Springs Cemetery.  A public memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family asks that anyone who desires to share memories to drop-off or create written sentiments during this time. You may also record a short video message to them saying what you would say in person and upload your message from your phone or computer at this link     https://www.tributeslides.com/up/291751553128

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the building fund at North View Missionary Baptist Church, 6801 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, AR 72116.  Memorials may also be made to The Baptist Preparatory School, 62 Pleasant Valley Dr., Little Rock, AR 72212, where her granddaughter attends.