Walter A. Ridley, Jr.

Walter A. Ridley, Jr., 77, of Leechburg, passed away at home on Sunday, October 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born March 31, 1948, in Butler, he was the son of the late Walter A., Sr., and Florine (Lewis) Ridley.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, he was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.  Mr. Ridley was a retired truck driver.

He was a previous member of the American Legion in Elizabethtown.  He was an avid Steelers fan and enjoyed cookouts and picnics.  Some of his best times were spent at camp with his son, Mike, where they enjoyed playing cards and had their infamous marathon Monopoly games. He loved his grandchildren fiercely and never missed a single one of their sporting events.  To say he loved “Ice Road Truckers” would be an understatement!  

He is survived by his two daughters, Crystal (Brad) McMillen, of Leechburg, with whom he lived, and Sherry (Jason) Kelsey of Crossville, TN; his grandchildren, Katelyn, Mason, Jesse, Emma, and Drake; his great-grandchildren, Caleb, Mikhail, Alessi, Miela, and Luca; and his dear friend, Dawna Hockenberry of Greenville.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael “Mike” Ridley; a grandson, Tanner McMillen; and his former wife, Katherine “Diane” Baker.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the American Legion in Worthington. Gathering will begin at 2 p.m., followed by a service at 3 p.m. All are invited to join the family for a dinner immediately following the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to Welch Funeral Service, LLC, 1032 Fourth Ave., Ford City.  To share memories or condolences, please visit www.welchfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Walter A. Ridley, Jr., please visit our floral store.