Albert Lawrence Riddle, III

Albert Lawrence Riddle III., age 89, beloved husband, devoted father, proud “Papa,” and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Merrimack, New Hampshire, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 8, 1935, in Boston and raised in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, Albert was a man who lived life with quiet strength, deep conviction, and a warm heart. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel welcome — whether you were family, friend, or stranger.

In 1958, Albert answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Army and being stationed at Fort Smith, Arkansas, and later in Germany. These years deeply shaped his sense of duty and patriotism. After his active duty, he continued to serve with pride in the Massachusetts Army National Guard for another nine years.  The oath that he took was reflected throughout his life as he cherished the flag until his final day.  

In 1961, Albert founded Albert Riddle Plastering, building a respected career with nothing but hard work, strong hands, and a reputation for doing things the right way. Even in semi-retirement, he couldn’t resist sharing his craft and wisdom—whether on job sites or during his time at Home Depot, where he was always ready to lend advice, a smile, or a story.

Albert was the proud patriarch of a large and loving family. He and his loving wife, Katherine Murray, share 42 wonderful years together — a union rooted in laughter, loyalty, and unwavering companionship. Together they built a life full of joy, family, shared values, and spirited conversations.

Those who knew him will remember his generous spirit, his strong opinions, and his endless affection for his grandchildren. He called himself “Lucky Al” — a nickname he proudly touted, even thru declining health, stating: “I’ve had a great life.” Everyone who knew him considered themselves the lucky ones. If you knew Al, you knew that he unconditionally ‘loved love and hated hate.’

Albert leaves behind a legacy of love and family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Katherine Murray; his children Albert Riddle IV, Maureen Riddle, and Alison and her husband Thomas Bissett; his stepchildren Michael (Heather) Murray, Kevin (Diane) Murray, Tim Murray, and Dan (Bridget) Murray; his grandchildren and step-grandchildren Dominic (Jeri) Carbone, Julianne (Ryan) Buchanan, Ken Ott, Amber Riddle, Albert Riddle V, Carley Bissett, Jessie (Jacob Scanlon) Bissett, Rebecca Rencurrel, and Matt Rencurrel, Jillian (Christen) Cloutier, Andrea Murray, Ashley (Matt) Fagundes, Erin Murray, Garrett Murray, Renee Murray, Kyle Murray, Alex Murray, and Charlotte Murray.

He is also survived by his sister Arlene Pappalardo, brother Brian Riddle, many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends — all of whom felt the warmth of his love and the strength of his character.

Albert is now reunited with those he missed so dearly — his parents, Jessie and Albert Riddle II., his daughters Paula Riddle, Julie Carbone, and Jennifer Grant, stepdaughter Maureen Murray, and his siblings Arthur, Mikey, Billy, Charlie, Carol, Joan, Dottie, and Cynthia.

A funeral service will be held at Our Lady of Mercy on October 11, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. A reception will follow at the at the pavilion of the Merrimack Legion. Interment will follow at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Albert’s memory to the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH, whose angel-like care and compassion brought comfort in his final hours. 

Albert lived a full and meaningful life, defined by love, service, hard work, and unwavering loyalty to the people and values he held dear. His presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.