Charles Darrow Riddle

Nashville, Tennessee — Charles Riddle, age 89, passed away on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025. He was born in Memphis, Texas to the late James and Jessie Lee Riddle. He is preceded in death by his first wife Betty Riddle; his sons David, Carl, and Chris; and his brother James (Margaret) Riddle.

He grew up in Plainview, Texas and graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in physics. He was an aerospace engineer for over 35 years, mostly at Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) in Tullahoma, Tennessee. He was an avid sports fan — he played tennis in college and for many years after and coached his son Danny’s Little League team to a state title in 1984. In retirement, he was a dedicated volunteer at St. Thomas West hospital, created many beautiful wood products in his workshop and loved spending time with his four granddaughters.

Charles is survived by his wife Ann Riddle, son Danny (Andrea) Riddle, stepdaughter Jenneen (Lance) Reed, stepson Joe (Lorrine) Dainwood, and grandchildren Grace Dainwood, Zan Dainwood, Libby Riddle, and Maggie Kaufman.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 14th at First Lutheran Church (113 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203). There will be a visitation from nine o’clock to eleven o’clock in the morning. The service will be held from eleven o’clock to noon with a luncheon to follow. There is free parking available adjacent to the church at the corner of McGavock St. and 8th Ave. If attending, please wear fun socks in honor of Charles. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Room in the Inn, Second Harvest, Habitat for Humanity, and Alive Hospice.