Marian Riddle

Born March 28, 1946 in Chicago Illinois, Marian Francis Fleming Riddle, ‘Cal’ to family and friends, grew up on the South side of Chicago surrounded by 13 brothers and sisters and her parents, Fredrick “Bubba” and Sarah Fleming. A devoted and loving mother and wife, Cal was joined in holy matrimony to Willis Riddle on May 02, 1963. Together they were blessed with six children: Marshall LaGrear Riddle, Daphne Patrice Riddle (deceased), Tonia Denise Joyner, Dant’e Lashawn (Raeann) Riddle, Brandy Patrice (Kevin) McDougald and Sommer Taneil (Nicklaus) Bouknight.

Cal followed her husband into service when he joined the Army. His service became hers as they traveled here and abroad with their young family. After returning stateside, she earned her degree in Nursing, often keeping late nights as she juggled motherhood and the pursuit of education. The family settled in Columbia, South Carolina in 1977. In 1985, she was employed by Blue Cross/Blue Shield. As a Quality Control Analyst, she rose through the ranks to retire as a Senior Analyst in 2011.

As the matriarch of the family, she raised her family with  quiet strength and vitality, the polar opposite of her husband. Even still, her reserved nature resonated, and you knew soon after meeting her that she was the foundation from which the family grew. Always with welcoming arms, she supported friends and family whenever there was a need, no questions asked. If she had it to give, it was given. Affectionately known as ‘Momma Riddle’ to all the kids in the neighborhood, she embraced all who came near and was loved.

Cal is survived by her five children, four siblings: Bertha Garrett, Chicago, Ill, Donna Collier, Chicago, Ill., George Fleming, Helena, Arkansas, and Deborah Fleming Columbia, SC. Her grandchildren, Michael Wooten, Sarah Riddle, Sir Anthony Riddle (deceased), Wesley Joyner, Erin Joyner, Khalis McDougald, Kaiden McDougald, Kadin McDougald, Nicholas Bouknight, Priest Bouknight, Noah Bouknight and her great grandchildren: Jayden Capers, Jazmine Capers, Mariah Jackson and Maia Jackson and a host of extended family and friends who cherish her deeply. She goes home to sit at the right side of her husband of 57 years and to reunite with her daughter and grandson.

“Remember the quiet times, for in them you will find joy. Look down upon us, Mama and know the love you created survives from now until forever”

~ wildflower

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