Eleanor Marion Riddle

Eleanor Marion Riddle, 98, a resident of Gage Street, died at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center on Wednesday, May 17, following a brief illness. She was born February 18, 1925 in Clarksville, TN, to the late Nathaniel and Emma (Sugg) Sims. She received her education in Clarksville schools, graduating from Clarksville High School in 1943. On June 5, 1948, she married John P. Riddle in Clarksville. After several years in western Pennsylvania and Burlington, they moved to Bennington in 1957, where John worked for the YMCA. He died August 28, 2000. Mrs. Riddle was employed at the former Cora B. Whitney school from 1965 until her retirement 25 years later. She was very active in the First Baptist Church of Bennington, where she served on various boards, sang in the choir, and taught Sunday School. She was also very active on the local and state levels of American Baptist Women. She was an honorary member of Delta Kappa Gamma and enjoyed gardening and crossword puzzles. She is survived by four sons: John P. Riddle Jr. of Rutland; Paul (Katherine) Riddle of Oakton, VA; David (Dianne) Riddle of Sandwich, MA; and Stephen (Kim) Riddle of Byron, GA; 16 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was pre-deceased by 10 brothers and sisters. At her request, there will be no calling hours, and graveside services will be at the convenience of the family. A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church at a later date. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to either the First Baptist Church or the Bennington Rescue Squad through the office of Mahar & Son Funeral Home, 628 Main St., Bennington, VT 05201. Guestbook condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net.