Judith Ann Ridlen

Judith Ann Ridlen (née Hardin), age 82, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025, at her group home in Plano, Texas.

Born on October 20, 1942, in Atlanta, Georgia, Judy was the eldest of three children to Brigadier General Joseph S. Hardin and Mary Hardin. As the daughter of a career Army officer, Judy spent her childhood in various locations both across the United States and abroad, developing a rich perspective on life and culture. Judy’s childhood included stops in Japan, France, Italy, and Germany, to name just a few.

She graduated from Highland Falls Central High School, where she found joy and expression in drama and dance. After high school, Judy moved to New York City to pursue her passion for acting and modeling before eventually beginning a career as a flight attendant with American Airlines.

In 1972, Judy married and soon became the devoted mother of two sons, Joseph and Jeffrey Ridlen. She lovingly raised her family in Arlington, Texas, balancing motherhood with a career as an administrative assistant at various companies. She later found a second home at Sam’s Club, where she worked until her retirement in 1999.

Judy was an avid reader and loved to watch Hallmark movies. She also loved playing board games, especially Trivial Pursuit. Judy was a passionate sports fan, with a particular love of baseball and the New York Yankees. And her dogs also held a special place in Judy’s heart throughout her life.

Judy is survived by her sons, Joseph Ridlen and Jeffrey Ridlen; her daughter-in-law, Nancy (Mitchell) Ridlen; and her cherished grandsons, Jack and Mason Ridlen. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph S. Hardin, Jr. and her sister-in-law, Beverly (Meendering) Hardin, of Santa Barbara, California; her sister, Janet (Hardin) Kaelin and her brother-in-law, Larry Kaelin, of Celina, Texas; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Brigadier General Joseph and Mary Hardin.

Funeral services will be at 3:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Allen Family Funeral Options. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. If you wish to join the service via webcast, please visit: https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/114492

The family would be happy to accept flowers for Judy's service.

Judy will be laid to rest at Wear Cemetery in Prosper, Texas.

Judy will be remembered for her sense of humor, wit, and deep love for her family.