Jess Murl Riddle

Jess was preceded in death by his dear parents, Jess Willard Riddle and Dessie Casteel, along with his brothers GV and Bill, and his sisters Christine and Cletus. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Laura, who has been his constant companion and support throughout his life’s journey. He is lovingly remembered by his children — Linda Stone (John), Nancy Brown (Johnny), and Allen Riddle (Valerie) — as well as by his 18 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren. Each of them was a source of joy and pride to him, and he never tired of telling all how much family meant to him.

At the age of 18, Jess joined the United States Air Force. It was during his military service that he learned the trade of an auto mechanic, a skill that became his lifelong profession and supported his family for decades. Those years of service instilled in him discipline, commitment, and honor — qualities that became part of who he was for the rest of his life. The Air Force gave him a foundation of loyalty and sacrifice that carried into everything he did — as a husband, father, grandfather, and as a faithful servant of the Lord.

On August 24, 1957, Jess married Laura Babb in Portland, Oregon. He loved to tell the story of the first time he saw her walk down the staircase at her Grandpa Larson’s home. In his eyes, she was — and always would be — the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. Six years later, on August 27, 1963, they were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple for time and all eternity, a covenant that gave eternal meaning to their marriage and to our family.

Jess had a deep love for the outdoors. He was a renowned fisherman, family and friends share fond memories of time spent with him on rivers, lakes, and the ocean. He was also an extraordinary musician, known for his beautiful singing voice and guitar playing, which brought joy to thousands throughout his life.

Above all, Jess was devoted to his family and to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether in his work, in the community, or in his service within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he showed faith, humility, and a deep love for the Lord.

His legacy lives on in the lives of his posterity, who continue to be blessed by his example of kindness, loyalty, hard work, and discipleship.

Monday, August 25, 2025 - a public viewing will take place between 8 am and 9:30 am at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, followed by a short vehicle procession into Willamette National Cemetery for an honors ceremony at 10:00 am. A Celebration of Life will then take place at 11:30 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 8331 Cason Road in Gladstone.