Donald Dean Riddle of Independence, MO has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
What remains is memory — and the gratitude of those he loved.
Donald held deeply to the Baptist faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Belief, when lived, becomes a kind of inheritance.
The family of Donald Dean Riddle is deeply saddened to announce his passing on April 25, 2026. Born on July 7, 1949 in Kansas City, MO, Don lived a full and remarkable life. He touched the hearts of everyone he met through his singing and guitar playing, along with his ability to put a smile on anyone's face. Don was greeted at heaven's gates by his parents, Jess and Christine (Wolf) Riddle, and brothers, James Riddle, Bill Riddle, Robert Riddle and Joe Riddle.
He will be missed dearly by his wife, and love of his life, of 56 years, H. Marietta "Mary" (Vanderpool) Riddle, children, Donnetta (Donnie) Proper, Julie (Sonny) Clayborn, and Dean (Tammy) Riddle, his 6 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, sisters, Janet Berry and Patricia Sumey, and many close family members and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held at New Hope Baptist Church on May 2, 2026 at 1:00pm, with a dinner to follow.
Royer's New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600
