Lynn Edwin Ridenhour, 82, Eldon and formerly of Belle, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, at his home with his family by his side.
He was born June 18, 1943, a son to the late Harry Edwin and Gertha Lorene (Owens) Ridenhour in Linn.
He was a 1962 graduate of Belle High School, attended East Central Junior College in Union, and received his bachelor’s degree from Webster University. Lynn went on to receive his master’s degree from the University of Iowa and his PHD from Columbia Pacific University.
In high school he played a guard on the basketball team and helped take the team to state as well as receiving a scholarship to Memphis State.
Lynn was also excellent at playing the trumpet and trombone and received several awards for his performances. He loved to entertain and was even a star in several high school plays.
Lynn was united in marriage to Linda Sue Smith Dec. 27, 1969 at the First Baptist Church in Belle.
The First Baptist Church was not only where he married the love of his life but also where God spoke to him and where he gave his life to the Lord. Lynn served as a Baptist minister for over 55 years spreading the word of God. It cannot be stressed enough that he really loved the Lord and heard his voice.
Lynn worked at his uncle and father’s business, HE & HC Clay Mining when he was young.
He liked playing golf, helping out others in need, and putting others first. Lynn liked to see other people happy and enjoyed making them laugh. He was an author and had written over 100 books.
Lynn loved Christmas and the Lord Jesus Christ and most of all he loved his two girls, Linda and Little Lori. He will be missed tremendously by his family, friends, and anyone who knew and loved him.
Lynn was preceded in death by parents, Harry and Gertha; and brothers-in-law Bill “Pedro” Campbell and Glennon Abel.
He is survived by wife, Linda; daughter, Lori Rice and husband Jeff of Rocky Mount; sisters, Joan Abel of Belle, Sherry Campbell of Owensville and Cynthia Rutz and husband Norris of Ashland; and fur babies, Barkley, Majerle and Miller; as well as many extended family members and friends.
Funeral services were held Friday, Oct. 3, at the First Baptist Church in Belle. Interment was in the Pilot Knob Church Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to Manna Ministries.
Arrangements entrusted to Sassmann’s Chapel in Belle.
