Joyce Riddick

Joyce S. Riddick HERTFORD - On Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008, Joyce Stokes Riddick ended her 92-year journey on earth, departing for her next phase in heaven with her Lord. Joyce was born in Hertford June 21, 1916. She graduated from Perquimans County High School in 1932 and from Greensboro College in 1936. Upon graduation, she began a career in education that spanned five decades. In 1943, she married the late R. Marion Riddick III of Hertford and accompanied him throughout his military career. During this time, she taught soldiers and airmen at the local posts and bases who were working on their General Equivalency diplomas. In 1961, the Riddicks returned to Hertford where Joyce continued teaching in the Perquimans County school system until her retirement. Joyce was a lifetime member of Hertford United Methodist Church. She taught the Crusaders Sunday school class for many years. She was a member of the Minnie Wilson Circle and United Methodist Women of which she served as president for two years. She was a member of Pi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma professional education sorority. She was also active in the NCO Wives Club during her husband's military career and served as president of the local club. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed playing until the last two years when she was forced to stop due to health reasons. Joyce was the daughter of the late Henry Clay Stokes Sr. and Ruth Clarke Stokes. In addition to her parents and her husband of 52 years, she was predeceased by her brother, R. Clarke Stokes of Greenville, N.C. She is survived by her three loving children, Judith Riddick Call and husband Edward of Johns Island, S.C., Rufus M. Riddick IV of Arlington, Va., and Wayne T. Riddick of Bristol, Va. She is also survived by a grandson, Christopher S. Tarrant and wife MariaTeresa of Lawrenceville, Ga.; her brother, Henry C. Stokes Jr. and wife Bettie of Hertford; and eight nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends Saturday from 7 until 8:30 p.m. in Swindell Funeral and Cremation Services. A service of love, appreciation and remembrance will be held at Hertford United Methodist Church Sunday at 3 p.m. Graveside services will follow in Cedar Wood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hertford United Methodist Church, 200 Dobbs St., Hertford, NC 27944.