Susan Julane (Vaughn) Ridenour

Susan Julane Ridenour, a beacon of joy and unwavering strength, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, in Skiatook, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Born on November 16, 1960, in Ft. Benning, Georgia, Susan was a person whose life was characterized by commitment, both to her family and her community. Growing up in the Sperry/Skiatook area and graduating with the Skiatook class of 1979, Susan was the embodiment of hometown pride and spirit.  Susan's life was a testament to the power of love, as she married her High School sweetheart and soulmate, Jerry Bob Ridenour Jr., on January 23, 1981.  She always said that the only reason Jerry dated her was because he needed a licensed driver to take him to the stock car races.  Together, they built a life filled with laughter, support, and unwavering commitment. Susan's work ethic was nothing short of extraordinary. For 27 years, she devoted herself to American Airlines as a Production Assistant, a role in which she touched the lives of countless individuals with her dedication and passion. Even after her retirement in 2018, Susan's desire to contribute to the well-being of others did not wane. She continued to make her mark in the Training and Human Resource Departments at Omni Air Int’l, where her wisdom and guidance were invaluable. She showed a strong commitment to her community as Booster Club President and Basketball Coach, HS Soccer Coach, as well as served on the Skiatook School Board for 12 years.  But Susan's true calling was her service to the church. A faithful member of the Skiatook First Assembly of God Church for 47 years, where she loved singing in the choir and most of all as a Youth Sponsor with Jerry Bob for 17 years.  She maintained an active role in the church coordinating the audio/video for services up until a few weeks ago.  She had season tickets to the Performing Arts Center for many years and her favorite movie was The Wizard of Oz, which she had to watch at least once a year.  Susan's greatest joy, however, was her family. A dedicated wife, loving mother, and adored nana, she created a world filled with unwavering support and boundless love.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald Lee and Freida Marie (Linthicum) Vaughn.

Susan's journey through life was shared with her beloved husband, Jerry, who stood by her side in every chapter of their shared story. Her children, Jeremy and his wife Jessica, Dugan, and Samantha, were the heartbeats of her existence, each of them a reflection of her spirit and grace. Her sister, Cindy Nelson, and her husband John, along with her brother, Ricky Vaughn, will carry the torch of her memory, ensuring that her light never dims. Susan was also a cherished grandmother to seven grandchildren, who will grow up with stories of her kindness and the knowledge that they were loved beyond measure. Susan's extended family, including several nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends, will remember her for her ability to see the potential in everyone she met. She had an uncanny ability to make each person feel special, heard, and valued. Her legacy is not just in the lives she touched, but also in the example she set of living a life full of purpose and passion.

As we reflect on the life of Susan Julane Ridenour, we are reminded of the power of living with intention. She taught us to sing like no one is listening, to serve with a heart without bounds, and to love as if it's the only thing that matters. Susan's story is one of triumph, not because of the challenges she faced, but because of the way she faced them—with courage, with dignity, and with an unwavering belief in the good of humanity. Let us honor Susan's memory by embracing each day with the same zest for life that she did, by lifting each other up as she lifted us, and by continuing to weave the tapestry of community that she so lovingly contributed to.  Susan Julane Ridenour may have left this earth, but her spirit remains, a guiding light for all of us to follow.