SYRACUSE – Miriam L. Ridings, 90, Syracuse, passed away Dec. 31, 2013, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Syracuse. She was born Nov. 8, 1922, in Ossian, to Glenn F. and Maude Weirich Jackson. On Dec. 6, 1941, she married Jackson D. Ridings, who preceded her in death Dec. 29, 1990. She graduated from South Side High School, Fort Wayne. She and Jack moved to Syracuse in 1949. She was assistant librarian at the Syracuse Public Library, payroll clerk at Sea Nymph Boat Co. and later worked at Turkey Creek Township assessor’s office, retiring after 15 years as first deputy assessor. She was an active supporter of Kosciusko County Republican committee, being recognized for her outstanding service. She was a past worthy matron of Eastern Star and was a volunteer at St. Andrews United Methodist Church Thrift Shop for many years, finally retiring in summer 2013. She is survived by her four children: Jay (and spouse Paula) Ridings, Cromwell; Dave Ridings Sr., Angola; Judy (and spouse Ken) Wagner, North Webster; and Peggy (and spouse Mark) Donoho, North Liberty; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; a brother-in-law, Jim (and spouse Jane) Ridings, Madeira Beach, Fla.; several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by a brother and a sister. Services are at 2 p.m. Saturday at Eastlund Funeral Home with Pastors Brad Cox and Ed Beedle officiating. A private burial will be in Syracuse Cemetery. Calling is from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. ***** Memorials to St. Andrews Thrift Shop. Condolences may be sent via eastlundfuneralhome.com
