Marlene Riddle

Marlene Riddle, 88, of Pampa, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026 in Amarillo, Texas surrounded by family.

Graveside services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Memory Gardens Mausoleum with Pastor Ronnie Lambert officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors and Crematory.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, February 6, 2026 from 6:00-7:30 PM.

Marlene was born on October 3, 1937 in Caradan, Texas in Mills County to G.E. and Betha Wicker Griggs. She graduated from Pampa High School in 1956. In August of 1957, she married William (Bill) Thornton. Together they had three children: Steven, Brian, and Janet.

Marlene began her career while still in high school, working in the Gray County Tax Office. In 1968, she joined the Gray County Auditor’s Office, where she served faithfully until her retirement in 1996, completing nearly 23 years of dedicated service to her community. During her professional years, she was an active member of the Pampa Kiwanis Club. On September 10, 1994, Marlene married Don Riddle at Briarwood Church, where they were members. They shared 23 wonderful years of marriage before Don’s passing on February 10, 2017.

Marlene was known for her quiet demeanor and her deeply loving heart. An avid reader, she could often be found curled up with a good book. Yet beneath her reserved exterior, was an adventurous spirit that many never saw—on her 55th birthday, for example, she surprised everyone by skydiving! She and Don especially loved traveling together, exploring the country in their fifth-wheel camper.

Marlene loved flowers and had a special fondness for bluebonnets. Family was at the center of her life, and nothing could light up her face, quite like seeing those she loved. Whenever she flashed that truly happy smile, her eyes would rise to match that smile! Her grandchildren (and great-grandchildren) had a special way of energizing her even on days when she wasn’t feeling well. It brought her deep happiness to see her family gathered, sharing life side-by-side, often enjoying her home-made ice cream. Marlene loved her family in her own steady way, and that devotion remained constant throughout her life.

Marlene was preceded in death by her parents; son, Steven Ray Thornton; three brothers, Max Lynn Griggs, Calvin Griggs, and David Griggs.

Survivors include her daughter, Janet Thornton McNeely of Pampa; son, Brian Thornton of Wilburton, Oklahoma; sister, Barbara Griggs Slater and husband Wayne of Pampa; seven grandchildren, Brian Thornton Stover and wife Amanda, Mikel Hartley and wife Tammy, Steven Ray Thornton, Jr., Lora Cabrialez, Carl Thornton and wife Emma, Dr. Landon McNeely and wife Lainey, and Quinn (Ashlyn) McEben and spouse Stephanie; 10 great grandchildren; special neighbors, Russ and Susan Alexander; and numerous other family members and friends.

Memorial can be made to American Diabetes Associating or a favorite charity.