Jurica "Joy" Navarro Riddle

“Loving and Devoted Mother and Friend”

Who can ever forget 2020…. The year marked by social distancing, lock downs and the never ending discussion whether to wear a mask or not. This year has been most difficult and tragic for families who lost their loved ones without having the chance to give their loved one an embrace, a kiss or even hold their hand as they move on to their journey called eternity. Never did we thought that saying goodbye through a video call will be the new normal. It is with profound sadness to announce the passing away of our beloved , JURICA N RIDDLE last Dec. 22, 2020 at St. Francis Via Christi Hospital. She lived a full life for 82 years. Her courageous battle with the novel virus will always be a part of history of the most “unprecedented year“ as the world describes it. Jurica N. Riddle, fondly known as “Joy” by her

family and friends was born on Oct. 27, 1938, in the province of Leyte, Philippines. It was the place

where the American Forces of Liberation lead by Gen. Douglas MacArthur landed in 1944. She was the only child of Rafael Navarro and Victoria Agollo who both lost their lives during WWII. She would vividly tell the story of how an American GI pulled her out from the pit were the whole family was hiding. Unfortunately, she was the only one who survived. A deep scar on her left leg caused by a shrapnel was a constant reminder of that dreaded day. At a tender age of 6, she became an orphan and later on adopted by a family who raised her to be brave and fearless. In spite of the harsh challenges of life, she thrived and eventually stole the heart of Wilfred D Riddle, a Marine Corp, assigned at Sangley Point Cavite Philippines. They tied the knot on June 17,1964 and a year later, they moved to the US. After 6yrs

of marriage, they were blessed with a son, Michael D. Riddle. Like any other military family, they

moved to California, North Carolina, Hawaii before finally settling down in Chetopa, KS were they

raised Michael. Migrating to another country with an entirely different culture and language was a daunting task she needed to overcome. She works at daytime and attends an adult school at night to learn the language. Her hard work and persistence paid off. She passed the test to become an American

Citizen on June 13, 1969. Joy will always be remembered by her funny side comments and sense of humor. But mind you, she can be ornery at times too. She is a devoted mother and a loyal friend. She may at times look tough, but deep inside is a caring and compassionate woman, ready to help anyone who is in need. She may not have a lot but her generosity is truly outstanding. She was a talented artist. Her hands are skillful in creating beautiful art works. From ceramic souvenirs to crochet garments and textiles. Every piece is indeed a labor of love adored by her family and friends. She was also a good cook

specializing in Filipino cuisine. Her Adobo and Sinigang are the most requested part of the menu.

Her day won’t be complete without her cup of coffee, crossword puzzles and her loyal companion, Cheenah, the cat. Playing bingo with friends keeps her busy as well. Joy is survived by her son, Michael D. Riddle and daughter in law, Ruby N Riddle. She was preceded in death by her husband Wifred

D. Riddle and her beloved cat, Cheenah. Celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date for everyone’s safety. In lieu of flowers, you can make your donations to Kansas Food Bank.

If there is a bible verse to sum up her life, it will be in 2 Tim. 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have

finished the race, I have kept the faith.” You are dearly loved and we will surely miss

you…..