Rev. Doris E. Ridgely

Reverend Doris Elizabeth Ridgely, 95, passed away peacefully at her home on June 1, 2025. Born on January 27, 1930, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of Della Wilson and Joseph Carter. Doris dedicated her life to service-both professionally and spiritually. After a distinguished career with the Social Security Administration, from which she retired in 1990, she answered a higher calling and enrolled in seminary. She became an ordained United Methodist minister in 1996 and went on to faithfully lead two congregations until her retirement in 2007. Her dedication to ministry was honored with her induction into the Preachers Hall of Fame in May of 2009. Doris was married for 63 years to her beloved husband, Vernon Ridgely. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family. She is survived by her children, Phyllis Lockett and Vernon Ridgely Jr. (Rocky) and his wife Norma Ridgely; her granddaughter, Sarah Ochoa and her partner Andrian Petrusca; and her great-grandson, Rey Ochoa. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Joseph Carter Jr., Irma Wilson, and Marie Lewis. Those who knew Reverend Ridgely remember her as a woman of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep compassion. Her sermons inspired many, her wisdom uplifted those around her, and her presence brought peace to all who encountered her. A viewing will be held on Sunday, June 8th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., followed immediately by the funeral service at Haight Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Reverend Ridgely's name to White Rock Church. Contributions can be sent via Zelle to whiterockimechurch@gmail.com or (667) 392-6950.