Colonel Catha L. Ridgeway, Jr. was born May 27, 1926 in Columbia, SC to Catha L. Ridgeway Sr. and Emma Franklin Ridgeway, and passed away on February 10, 2025. He was married to Barbara Neeley Ridgeway (deceased) for 79 years, short by two months.

C. L. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend and long-time caregiver to his beloved wife, Barbara. He grew up in the Olympia Mill Village, which was a wonderful resource for his gift of storytelling. C. L. was renowned for his storytelling, having honed this gift over the years, turning it into an art. All those privileged to hear his stories were not only captivated but highly entertained, all the while being amazed at his attention to detail; yes, memory extraordinaire.

"Therefore, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." (Colossians 3:12). "Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony." (Colossians 3:15). C. L. lived by these scripture passages. Because of the way he lived, he led by example and was beloved and highly respected by family, friends, comrades, co-workers, caregivers, neighbors and most all acquaintances. "I love the Colonel," has been repeated over and over to his family, especially in the past year as his struggles with health limited him physically. The faithful parade of visitors he enjoyed brings to mind the Genesis passage, "blessed to be a blessing," Deb, Erin and Amanda are thankful for every expression of love, care and support shown to C. L. and our family. He expressed his gratitude for each of you daily.

C. L. received the "Order of the Palmetto" from Governor Richard W. Riley in 1986. He was a life member of St. Luke Lutheran Church where he served on the church council and was a member of the finance committee for many years. He was awarded a life membership in Pacific Masonic Lodge 325 AFM and was an ongoing time member of Post 6 America Legion.

C. L. entered the army at age 18 and served in the infantry during World War II. He considered being made first sergeant at age 19 of CO E, 359th ENGR (G5) Regiment among his most noteworthy military accomplishments. Upon being honorably discharged following the war, he enlisted in the South Carolina Army National Guard working in the Property and Dispursing Office and held every position in the comptroller division. He retired in 1986 as the USPFO for the Army and Air National Guard of South Carolina.

Upon his retirement, he enjoyed traveling all over the US with his beloved wife, Barbara. He was an avid University of South Carolina fan and loved sports of all kinds. He shared football and basketball tickets with his family; shared adventures of many kinds with his granddaughters; partnered with his daughter-in-law for many home improvement projects; loved his church, his family, his friends...simply loved life. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

C. L. is predeceased by his wife Barbara and son Bruce. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Deb and granddaughters, Erin and Amanda.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, February 15, followed by a reception in the fellowship hall at St. Luke Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials go to:

St. Luke Lutheran Church

1127 Olympia Avenue

Columbia, SC 29201