Lisa Ridley Weldon, a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, in Memphis, TN, just five days short of her 71st birthday. She was born on July 31, 1953, in Kingsville, TX, to Robert and Catherine Ridley, the only daughter amongst a household of six boys.
The beloved daughter of Catherine Toups Ridley and Robert Jack “Buzz” Ridley, Lisa grew up with six brothers and, as the only girl, was deeply connected to each of them. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers David Ridley, R. Mark Ridley, Doug Ridley, and her brother-in-law Jimmy Teasley. Despite these losses, Lisa's spirit remained resilient and hopeful.
Lisa graduated from Marion Abramson High School in New Orleans in 1971. Among her professional experiences, she worked as a buyer for D.H. Holmes Department Stores and represented jewelry wholesalers for a number of years. Being the free spirit she was, Lisa and her friend Bonnie decided to sell their belongings and take a cross country trip to the Grand Canyon. Along the way, Lisa met her soulmate Clark E. Weldon. They were married on New Year’s Eve 1981 at a friend's house and enjoyed a devoted partnership for 43 wonderful years. Clark and Lisa exemplified true companionship, working side by side to run their business for 35 years. Their dedication to each other and their shared endeavors was an inspiration to all who knew them.
Lisa was a doting mother to her son, R. Cory Weldon, and a loving mother-in-law to Jennifer Mauricio. She was a matriarch to her beloved brothers and their wives, Drexel and Julie Ridley, Matt and Jodi Ridley, and Scott and Jamie Ridley; and she was a beacon of hospitality to her in-laws, Randy and Pat Weldon, Susan and the late Jimmy Teasley, and Steve and Christie Weldon, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. They all enjoyed and benefitted from the legacy of kindness and love that Lisa embodied.
A proud member of Central Church, Lisa's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was known for her loving, gentle, and kind nature, always ready to engage in conversations that touched the heart and soul. Her faithfulness was evident in every aspect of her life including her strong devotion to her family and friends.
Following in the footsteps of her mother Catherine and her Grandma Toups, Lisa was an excellent cook who delighted in hosting family and friends and creating cherished memories with her culinary skills and warm hospitality. You were truly blessed if you were fortunate enough to have a meal prepared by Lisa. Her love for reading and music added to the richness of her life, making her a well-rounded and deeply passionate individual. She was truly a woman who lived each day with grace and immense love.
Her family and friends will gather to celebrate and honor the legacy of love and kindness that was Lisa’s life at the Collierville Funeral Home on Saturday August 3, 2024. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM, and a reception with food and light refreshments, all at the funeral home located at 3863 Bailey Station Road, Collierville, TN 38017.
Lisa Ridley Weldon will be dearly missed but forever remembered for her loving heart, gentle spirit, kind soul, and faithful life. May she rest in eternal peace.
