Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1936
DIED
2022
Sam Ridgway Obituary
June 26, 1936 - July 10, 2022
Dr. Sam Houston Ridgway, DVM, PhD, distinguished marine mammal veterinarian and scientist, passed away peacefully at home in San Diego, surrounded by beloved family and friends. Sam was a humble man of heroic accomplishment, with a quick wit, kind heart, and gentle soul. Sam was born in Bigfoot, Texas, son to Morris Shepard and Florence Lipscomb Ridgway. In 1960, he married his sweetheart, Dr. Jeanette Fuller Ridgway, PhD, of Richards, Texas. They enjoyed almost 60 years of marriage before she passed in 2020. Sam is survived by his brother Don Ridgway (wife Jo Layne), brother Sid Ridgway (wife Mary Jay), and their families. Sam earned his undergraduate and veterinary degrees from Texas A&M University and was a loyal fan of the Aggies' football team. He was commissioned in the Air Force as a veterinary officer for military service animals, and obtained his PhD from Cambridge University in neuroscience. Sam was a founder of the US Navy's Marine Mammal Program, which he served for more than 60 years, and founding President of the National Marine Mammal Foundation. He was one of the largest contributors to marine mammal science and known as the 'father of marine mammal medicine'. A memorial service for both Sam and wife Jeanette will be held at First United Methodist Church of San Diego. Information about the memorial service will be made available at www.nmmf.org/ridgway.
Memories and Condolences
for Sam Ridgway
5 Entries
Ruth Unger
July 10, 2023
A year ago we were all together at Sam´s house celebrating the Fourth of July and watching the fireworks from his balcony. Sam brought so many incredible people together, and everyone adored him. It was a wonderful experience to take care of him, meet his family, and his very loved work family. Being around an amazing human like him is an experience I won't forget. I will cherish great memories with Sam, one of my favorites is him working on his computer and all of a sudden breaking out into song. He had a talent for singing, and was special in many ways. Love you Sam and miss you dearly. Thank you for the example you were to me and for everything.
Linda Oestreich
August 22, 2022
Worked a lot with Sam and his team at NOSC many moons ago. He was one of the most intelligent and kind person around. His legacy is unsurpassed in marine mammal studies. Few people rise to his level of greatness. RIP, dear Sam.
Tim Wilkinson
August 20, 2022
My Condolences to the family.
God bless Sam and may his legacy with the beautiful dolphins endure.
Lindy Rinaldi
August 7, 2022
Thank you for your dedication in making so many priceless global contributions. Your legacy created the pathway for my daughter to be working there with you, now in spirit in San Diego. May you frolic in the waves always with Tuffy. Prayers for all those who loved him for comfort in memories of a life well lived.
Mark Gillcrist
July 23, 2022
Fire sparks are rising
As the dying embers glow
The wandering wind is sighing
A ballad sweet and low
The cowboy´s heart is dreaming
Of a song he used to sing
Of nights out on the prairie
Will he not come home again?
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in Sam Ridgway's name
Memorial Events
for Sam Ridgway
How to support Sam's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Sam Ridgway's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
