Roger Dale Riddle

Roger Dale Riddle, 81, of Waynesville, passed away on September 3, 2025, in Clyde, North Carolina, at Haywood Regional Medical Center, surrounded by family. Born on October 31, 1943, in Canton, North Carolina. Roger lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a deep connection to his community.

Roger began his education at Patton Elementary School and continued at Canton High School in his hometown. He later attended Haywood Community College in Clyde, where he pursued technical studies and earned numerous certificates. His commitment to learning was evident throughout his life.

He began his professional career working in the Wood Yard/Pulp Mill for Champion International Papers in Canton, NC. Later, Roger obtained his Professional Painter and Contractor License, expanding his skills into the trades with diligence and pride.

A proud veteran, Roger served with the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era. His sense of duty extended beyond military service; he was actively involved with Search & Rescue Teams and participated in numerous humanitarian efforts through the Baptist Disaster Relief Teams. His work took him to Jamaica, Eastern North Carolina, Southern Florida, and Gulfport, Louisiana, where he assisted during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Roger was a devoted member of Canton First Baptist Church in Canton, NC. He served faithfully on the Building & Grounds Committee and found purpose through his involvement with the church's outreach programs. He also contributed to the Bethel Rural Organization in Waynesville, NC-another testament to his enduring commitment to community service.

In his personal time, Roger enjoyed being outdoors. He loved going to the lake, fishing trips that brought peace and joy, and traveling to new places whenever possible.

Roger is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Kaye Sloan Banther-Riddle; sons James R. Riddle and wife Becky, and Joseph D. Riddle and wife Tina; stepdaughters Lora B. Inman and husband Jimmy, Julia B. Vecchio-Hidalgo, and Brenda B. Israel and husband Jeff; brothers Eddie Riddle and Roy Riddle with wife Brenda; sisters June Swanger and Renell McCrary. Grandson, Jacob Riddle (Morgan) & their daughter, Harmony Riddle. Grandson, Malachi (Charity) & their three sons, Oliver, Henry & Charles Riddle. Granddaughter, Addison Riddle. Grandson, John Inman (Brittany) & their three sons, Jonathon, James & Wade Inman Grandson, Jesse A. Inman Grandson, Casey C. Vecchio (Aleitha) & their three children, Brayson, Colter & Octavia Vecchio. Granddaughter, Maddy Jo Presley (Braxton) & their three children, Henllee & John Weaver Turner & Karsyn Presley. Granddaughter, Queitha Vecchio Grandson, Jose Vecchio (Anna) Granddaughter, Chelsie Rathbone (Nathan) & their son Wyatt Granddaughter, Haley Fox & her children, Carter & Kenley Browning. Granddaughter, Rikki Gates (Anthony). Granddaughter, Sloan Carpenter & Grandson, Isaiah Israel; brother-in-laws, Gary Sloan & John Sloan (Kray). Along with many nephews & nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents Christine and Grady Riddle; mother-in-law Mildred M. Sloan; grandsons Westley A. Riddle and Joseph "Seth" Riddle; nephew David Inman; brother Woodrow "Woody" Riddle; sisters Brenda Dies and Maxine R. Inman; brother- and sister-in-law James W. Sloan and Polly Anna Palmer Sloan; a niece, Mildred "Millie" Sloan Hotard; brothers-in-law Glenn Swanner and Scooter McCrary; sister-in-law Rebecca Riddle.

Roger's legacy is one of steadfast service to country and community, and faith.