Published in the March 3, 2017 edition
ACTON — Louise (Withee) Ridlon, 90, a resident of Acton and formerly of Bridgewater and Melrose, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, February 23, 2017.
Louise was born in Somerville on September 23, 1926, and was one of two children of the late Eugene Withee and Sara K. (Brison) Withee. She was raised in Somerville, where she graduated from Somerville High School, Class of 1944. Shortly after graduation, Louise began a solo journey by train to Biloxi, Mississippi, where she would marry her high school sweetheart, Harold G. Ridlon. Louise and Harold lived in Melrose for many years, where they raised two children, Scott and Linda, before establishing a new home in the community of Bridgewater.
As a child, Louise often returned to her familial roots in Nova Scotia, and the area forever held a special place in her heart. She and Harold purchased the home next door to the family homestead, and loved yearly summer trips back to Nova Scotia. She enjoyed traveling, particularly later in her life, with her family and friends. She enjoyed trips to the British Isles, Scandinavia, throughout Europe and the United States, and many trips to Bermuda.
At home in her free time, Louise loved gardening, and took great care of her perennial beds. She was a longtime devoted member of the garden club in Bridgewater, and even had her own day, April 6, named Louise Ridlon Day for her over 30 years of service to the club. She was very active at the Central Square Congregational Church in Bridgewater for over 30 years, and while living in Melrose at the First Baptist Church.
For Louise, family always came first. She provided continual support for her husband throughout his many academic and professional accomplishments, and created a warm and loving home for her children. She was a loyal and caring friend to many with whom she shared both good and difficult memories. She also loved her cats, especially Tabby, her constant companion for the last eight years of her life.
From her childhood through her final days, Louise made an impact on others through her warm, caring nature, and kind heart. She was a woman who was genuinely interested in others, and will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Louise was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Harold G. Ridlon, with whom she shared 43 years of marriage. She was the devoted mother of Scott A. Ridlon and his wife Carrie of Woburn; and Linda L. Ridlon and her spouse Valerie Langbehn of Plymouth. She was the dear brother of the late Gene Withee.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor of Louise’s life for her Funeral Service at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, Feb. 28. Interment followed at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For online tribute or directions, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
