Gregory Thomas "Brother" Ridgell
August 11, 1930 ~ November 19, 2015
Gregory Thomas “Brother” Ridgell, 85, of Mechanicsville, MD passed peacefully away on November 19th, 2015 at the Charlotte Hall Veteran’s Home with his daughter at his side. He was the son of the late Austin “Buck” and Cecilia Ridgell of Scotland, Maryland and husband of the late Marilyn Ridgell. He is preceded in death by his brothers Leslie, Gus (Austin), and George and his sisters Cecelia “Flip” Titus and Grace Pratt. He is survived by his daughter Diane and his sisters Catherine Dean, Eleanor Tippett, Clara Norris and Susanna Wolf.
He joined the Air Force in 1950 and served in the Korean War. He spent 26 years in San Francisco before moving to Maryland with his family. He had a Forth Degree Honorary Life Membership in the St. Francis Assembly #43 Knights of Columbus Council in San Francisco. He spent many of his later years as an usher at Our Lady of the Wayside in Chaptico.
His many occupations included: janitor, gardener and subway driver for the Senate where he was known for always whistling a happy tune.
He loved playing the slots, cards—especially pinochle, golf, bowling, gardening, fishing and watching baseball, but the thing he loved most was enjoying a great meal out and telling stories and jokes with his loved ones. He was known for his grin, his easy-going attitude and his love for others.
The family will receive friends on Friday, November 27, 2015 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM with prayers recited at 7:00 PM in St. Michael’s Catholic Church Ridge, MD. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 10: AM in St. Michael’s Catholic Church Ridge, MD with Father Peter Giovanoni officiating, and Father Joseph Bayne con celebrating. Interment will be on Friday, December 4, 2015 at 11:00 AM in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home 29449 Charlotte Hall Road Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 and/or Hospice of St. Mary’s P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, MD 20650.





My deepest sympathy to Diane and Todd and to Brother’s entire family – he carried his cross well; he now rests with his Lord and dear wife. Brother was good company and while in his company he always made me laugh. Brother was a good man and a great father.
So sorry for the families and friends loss. I didn’t really know “Brother” except through his brother George and nephew, Sonny Dean. The few times I saw him, he was at a card table surrounded by family……and laughing. May he rest in peace.
Diane, your dad was the most kind and loving man. I will always remember that grin! REST IN PEACE BROTHER…
Uncle Tom, we are sure gonna miss your beautiful smiling face! You are one of a kind, and the world is a quieter place without you. Hugs to you, Diane. He was so lucky to have you as his daughter. Without a doubt, this man knew and shared love in his life.
Diane and Todd,
I can’t even begin to express how my heart aches for you. You’ll be in my prayers. Hugs
Diane and Todd — I’m so sorry for your loss. It is always so hard to lose a parent. I hope that happy memories will be with you and bring you peace.