Joe Riddle

Joe Riddle, a beloved member of the Kopperl community, passed away on December 11, 2024, in Lakeside Village, Texas, at the age of 65. 

He was born on May 21, 1959, in Clifton, Texas, to Charlie Henry Riddle and Florence Ann Gee. Joe's legacy is deeply rooted in his family, service to his community, and his passion for music. Joe graduated from Kopperl High School in 1977.  He worked in construction for many years before entering into his long career in the public school system as the Maintenance/Transportation Director at Rio Vista and Kopperl school districts. In this role, he touched the lives of countless students and staff members. In addition to his maintenance responsibilities, he shared his passion for athletics by coaching softball, leaving a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored.

As a lifelong resident of Kopperl, Joe was known for his warm smile, welcoming spirit, generosity, and infectious personality to never meet a stranger. He married the love of his life, Debbie, on June 10, 1980. Their partnership was marked by love, mutual support, and a shared devotion to their church community. For many years, Joe served as a deacon at the First Baptist Church of Kopperl, where he spread his passion for music and enriched the lives of those around him.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe cherished his time spent with family. He was a proud father to Mark Jordan, and wife, Sharon; Melissa Young, and husband, Jason; and Rachel Payne, and husband, A.J. His legacy continues through his grandchildren,  Alyssa Mitchell, Dustin Jordan, Sean Brooks, Corrina Young, Teagan Young, Sierra Young, Emma Payne, Taryn Payne, Maci Payne and Natalee Payne. Joe also adored his great-grandchildren, Samuell Mitchell, Ashton Jordan, Ryder Jordan, and Declan Brooks; his sister, Jeannie Newman, and husband, Bo, and his sister-in-law Shirley May, and husband, Tim.

 He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Debbie; parents, Charlie Henry and Florence Ann Gee Riddle; as well as his sister, Charlene Lain.

Joe enjoyed working in his yard, tinkering in the garage, and playing music, often times writing songs about life events and loved ones. Joe never met a stranger, helping anyone in any way no matter the circumstances. 

Joe will be remembered not only for his contributions to Kopperl but also for his unwavering love for his family and friends. As we gather to celebrate his life, we invite you to join us for a visitation at Lawson Funeral Home in Meridian on December 12, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on December 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Kopperl, located at 177 FM 1859, Kopperl, Texas, where we will honor and remember a man who touched many lives.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.