Jackie “Jack” Lee Ridgway age 81, of Byesville, OH passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born May 10, 1944 in Tuscarawas County, OH son of the late Albertus Sr. and Katherine Miller Ridgway.

He served and protected his nation in the U.S. Navy. Jack was a member of the American Legion and Moose Lodge. He enjoyed mowing grass, ginseng hunting, fishing, genealogy research, and spending time with his grandchildren. Jack could often be found watching westerns on television, especially his favorite show Gunsmoke.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by daughter Brenda Emmons; granddaughters Bobbie Joe Wilson, Ashton Noel Ridgway and Breanna Nikkol Ridgway; brothers Albertus “Burt” Ridgway Jr. and Gary Ridgway.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Velma Gayle Rominger Ridgway, whom he married November 13, 1994; children Nancy Sue Ridgway of South Carolina, William (Shana) Wilson of Cambridge, and Bobby (Cheryl) Wilson of Byesville, OH; son-in-law Jeff Emmons of Portsmouth, OH; grandchildren Nyle (Stephanie) Emmons, Holly Wilson, Lydia (Kyle) Butler, Michaela Emmons, Rheanna Wilson, and Jarrett Wilson; great-grandchildren Bentley Wilson, Adley Emmons, Kyleigh Emmons, and Anna Randolph; brothers Sam (Tommy Jean) Ridgway of Texas and Craig (Margaret) Ridgway of Florida. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Cremation will be observed with no additional services being held at this time. Chandler Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 609 West Street, Caldwell, OH 43724 has been entrusted to care for the family.