Jewel Lee (Goodrich) Ridgeway |
| Posted 2008-09-05 by Pat Wilson |
| The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona October 7, 2001 Jewel Lee Goodrich Ridgeway, graduated into eternal life on October 4, 2001. Jewel was born in Tempe, Arizona on February 18, 1909. She was the daughter of Sallie E. and James Bert GOODRICH. She was raised on the homestead of her pioneer grandfather Jeremiah Hugh CUMMINGS. Jewel was the family darling, being the only girl born among 6 aunts and uncles. She was especially proud of her brothers Bert GOODRICH; the first Mr. America in 1939, and her brother Col. James Lynn GOODRICH who was nominated to the White Sands Missile Base Hall Fame. Jewel wanted to be remembered as a 'teacher and an entertainer'. Her colleges were Arizona State University at Tempe and UCLA where she received her Masters in Education at the age of 53. Jewel taught and substituted in more than 200 schools in Southern California. Jewel was a life time member of the N.E.A. She recently was awarded a certificate of appreciation from the Old Timers Foundation for her significant service to the community as a Senior Volunteer. Jewel played the piano and sang at the Dino Papavera High Rise, and The Old Timers Senior Center in Fontana. Jewel was faithful in her volunteer service up until 13 days before her passing. She drove herself everywhere. She embraced life to its fullest. Jewel has been a member of Fontana United Methodist Church for the last 41 years. She loved her church family. Jewel has been a widow for 20 years of her beloved Frank H. RIDGEWAY whom she will now rest beside. They were married in 1928 in El Paso, Texas. Jewel is survived by her four daughters: Sally PHILLIPS of Amarillo, Texas; Jewel Frances GIVENS of Fontna, California; Sandi HALL of Mesa, AZ; and Merry LAKEBRINK of Camdenton, Missouri. She also leaves 15 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. Jewel will be remembered as a wise, loving, gentle and generous friend to both family and friends. She is an example of someone who overcame and conquered life with joy. A true 'Jewel' in every sense of the word. Visitation at Green Acres chapel. Church Service at Fontana First United Methodist Church, 9116 Sierra Ave. Interment at Green Acres Memorial Park. Green Acres Mortuary, Directors. |
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