Charlotte N. (Wilson) Ridley

Charlotte N. Ridley, 81, of Clarkston, MI, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2024. Born on May 27, 1943, in Bay City, Michigan, to the late James and Thelma (Graves) Wilson, Charlotte lived a full and vibrant life rooted deeply in her hometown.

Charlotte began her education at the quaint Bentley Grade School, a two-room schoolhouse where she formed a lifelong bond with her future husband, Arthur Ridley. From kindergarten, they walked to and from school together every day, a journey that set the foundation for their enduring love. She graduated from Standish Sterling High School in 1961 and married Arthur two years later on July 6, 1963, beginning a remarkable partnership that spanned 61 years.

Her professional life was spent enriching the lives of others through her work at Atlas Grocery and Orchard Food Land for over 20 years. As a beloved employee in the bakery, Charlotte delighted her family with the largest apple fritters and which were the envy of many people.

Charlotte was a woman of many passions. She found joy in quilting, camping at Groveland Oaks, and cherishing moments with her large family. Following Arthur’s retirement, the couple embraced the warmth of Arizona winters, spending eight and a half years as snowbirds.

Charlotte's legacy lives on through her loving husband, Arthur Ridley; her children, Michell Brown, Jody (Andrea) Ridley, Jim (Gretchen) Ridley, and Janis Lee Ridley; her siblings, Earl (Greta) Wilson, Richard (Nancy) Wilson, Bob (Barb) Wilson, Donnie Wilson, and Betty (Larry) Gordanier; 14 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Charlotte will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion to family, and the beautiful memories she created with those she loved. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will take place on Monday, July 22, 2024 at Coats Funeral Home, 3141 Sashabaw Rd., Waterford, MI 48329, from 2:00pm to 9:00pm. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 11:00am with visitation beginning at 9:00am.

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