Lou Riddick Avallone, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend to many was welcomed into her Savior’s arms on May 20, 2025 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina at the age of 77. She was surrounded by her loving family including her devoted husband of 58 years, Louis Raymond (Ray) Avallone.
Born on January 30, 1948, in Norfolk, Virginia, Lou was the daughter of the late Joseph Norman and Bessie Alton Riddick. She was also preceded in death by her beloved sister, Norma Burk.
She is survived by her brother, Alton Riddick (Pete) and brother in law William Burk.
She was cherished and adored by her three children Renee Shandra (Chris), Miles Romello, Gina Andrews (Jay). She took immense pride in and was cherished by her 5 grandchildren, Victoria Yoder (Paul), Amanda Cairnes (Vance), Rose Shandra (fiancé Austin), Emma Romello and Nathan Romello – who were her pride and joy. She was a loving great-grandmother to her “sugars” Ryland and Elijah and looked forward to welcoming her great-grandson Isaac and baby Cairnes. Affectionately known as "Aunt Lou," she held a special place in the hearts of her many nieces and nephews and she loved them with all her heart.
Lou retired from USAA Insurance, where she served as a dedicated supervisor. When her health allowed, she was an active and faithful member of Freedom Fellowship. Prior to that, she devoted many years of service to Rock Church, where she served in the deaconship, nursery, youth group, and women’s ministry always willing to help wherever she was needed. She loved painting, crafting, and making handcrafted cards for the church ministry.
Lou’s home was a place of warmth and welcome—where everyone was treated like family and no one left hungry. She enjoyed playing cards with family and friends for hours. She was a woman of strong faith, living out her beliefs daily and modeling the life of a Proverbs 31 woman. Her unwavering relationship with Jesus Christ shaped her life and left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Even through life’s many trials, her steadfast faith was a guiding light to her family and friends—a legacy that continues in those she leaves behind.
A Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2:00 p.m. at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home by the Rev. Rick Hocker. Interment will follow at Rosewood Memorial Park. Lou loved the colors pink, baby, blue, purple and lavender. You are welcome to wear one of these colors in her honor.
Friends may offer condolences at www.kellumfuneralhome.com
