Dar Ridgley

Darce Allen “Dar” Ridgley of Show Low, Arizona peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on August 19, 2023 in Show Low. He was 80. Dar was born on September 19, 1942 to William Jay and Elizabeth Jane Ridgley. 

Dar grew up in Winslow, Arizona and met the love his life, Dinah Nester, on April 17, 1961 in Winslow. Knowing he had found his soulmate, he proposed just three short months later on July 4th. 

In 1962 Dar answered the call to serve his county and enlisted into the United States Army. While on leave after finishing boot camp Dar and Dinah were married on December 23, 1962 in Holbrook, Arizona and so began their storied love affair spanning over 60 years.  

While serving, Dar was stationed in Germany and after just having their first child, Darla, Dinah and Darla made the long journey to be with him. He received his honorable discharge from the military and shortly after the family moved back to Arizona. Dar became active in school sports having taken a position as the wrestling coach for the Holbrook School District and then Show Low for more than 30 years.  

God and family were very important to him, and he was a faithful member of the High Country Church of Christ in Show Low. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and a wonderful grandfather who will be deeply missed by all those whom he dearly loved. 

He is survived by his beloved Dinah; daughters, Darla (Danny) Milam and DeeDee (Eddie) Lilly Harris; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren as well as his siblings, Jay Ridgley and Sharlett Cochron. 

He was preceded in death by his son, DJ Ridgley and son-in-law, James Lilly. 

A Celebration of Dar’s Life will be held 2:00 P.M. Saturday, September 2, 2023 at the High Country Church of Christ, 3201 E. Deuce of Clubs, Show Low. 

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Show Low Bible Camp, 3201 E. Deuce of Clubs, Show Low, Arizona 85901 in Dar’s name.