John Thomas Ridout

John Thomas Ridout, 89, of Killeen, passed away on April 30, 2026. Born on November 13, 1936, in Toronto Canada, John lived a life marked by service, adventure, leadership and dedication to family and country.

John proudly served his country for 30 years as an U.S. Army Sergeant Major, where his distinguished military career that included assignments in G2 Intelligence/ Counter intelligence, Special Forces (Airborne and Ranger Qualified) and had the honor to participate in the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Demonstration Team. His commitment, skill and courage earned the respect of all who served alongside him.

Following his military career, John continued to share his knowledge and passion through his work as an Aircraft Flight Instructor at Central Texas College. He was also actively involved in the aviation community as a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and a volunteer in the Killeen community. John’s lifelong love of sports and officiating was evident through his work as an On- and Off-ice Hockey Official, Umpire and Referee to include working with the Belton Texas Stampede.

He was also a proud member of the Central Texas Chapter, 82nd Airborne Association and Special Forces Association, Chapter 77, Killeen TX. At one time a member of the NATO Sergeants Association, Germany.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife, Frances Ridout, who passed away on January 2, 2017. He is survived by his children, daughter Michelle & Michael Reed of Shallotte, North Carolina, and son Eric & Robin Ridout of Dallas, Texas, and grandson Kodiak Reed of Alaska, whom all will miss his cooking.

He will be remembered for his remarkable humor, spirit, his steadfast service and the many lives he touched with his strength and generosity. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, neighbors and comrades around the world that had the chance of knowing him.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 29, 2026 at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home. Burial, with full military honors, will be at 2:00 PM at Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.