Elizabeth Jane Ridenour 1935-2025

Elizabeth Jane (Black) Ridenour

Elizabeth Jane (Black) Ridenour, 90, of Belchertown, MA, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, after a difficult period of declining health.  “Betty” was born on March 2, 1935, in Springfield, MA, and was the third daughter of David B. Black and Mary Elizabeth (Ling) Black.

Betty graduated from Cathedral High School in 1953. She met her future husband Bob in 1958, then an Airman stationed at Westover Air Force Base . After their first meeting, when her mom asked her if she had met anyone that she liked more than herself, she responded that, indeed,  she had.  He was the one. They spent 28 years together before his untimely death in 1986.

Betty’s early working years were spent at Mass Mutual in Springfield, MA.  She left in 1959 to begin her family, and she put her heart and soul into being the best mom, household manager and wife possible.  She was a true partner to her husband, a loving daughter, sister, mom, aunty and loyal friend.

Once her family was launched, Betty returned to the working world as an office manager for her brother-in-law Dr. Francis Riley before retiring in 1995.  Throughout her life Betty pursued the development of her artistic skills and gardening knowledge.  In retirement she was able to blossom as an artist, and many friends and family members are blessed to have her theorems, paintings and artistic creations.  Some in her family circle were even lucky enough to have had her as a painting teacher!  Creativity fed her soul, and even as her capacity to pursue more demanding arts diminished, she used her expert eye and skills to create beautiful handmade cards, often in collaboration with her daughter who supplied her with photographs of the natural world ranging from butterflies to waterfalls to mountain ranges. She was able to transform these photos into eye-catching and beautiful cards that many hesitated to use as such, preferring to frame them instead.

Betty was also able to travel in retirement, taking a train trip through western Canada and even a trip to Russia with her dear friend Dr. William Hill.  These trips expanded her horizons and her appreciation of the wider world and the people and places in it. She often said, “Can you believe a girl from humble Jamaica Street would ever get to see these sights?”  She never lost her sense of wonder and was thankful for the many people she encountered throughout her long life. Numerous neighbors and helpers became her friends well beyond their initial connection. To her family she was a loving and steady influence.  She was always able to see the best in people and to offer support when needed. She was always ready for a laugh, a good meal, or a cup of tea and a cookie at the kitchen table.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Robert E. Ridenour, dear sisters Rita Bielitz and Marion Little Riley, beloved brother Robert Black, and many friends that she met and cherished during her long life.  

She is survived by her loving sister Carol Olbrych, cherished children Kathryn Leigh (Frederick), and Robert Ridenour (Elaine), grandchildren Caitlin Ridenour and James Ridenour, step-granddaughter Amanda Leigh-Hawkins and great granddaughter Jadzia Hawkins. Many nieces and nephews that were dear to her also survive. She will be sorely missed and remembered with love by many.

Her family would like to extend their thanks to the many kind and helpful staff at the Center for Extended Care in Amherst and to the staff at the Hospice of the Fisher Home in Amherst that assisted with her care during her final illness.  Williamsburg Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. A private service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. 

In honor of her memory please consider making a donation to The Hospice of the Fisher Home, 1165 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002

Williamsburg Funeral Home was entrusted with her care.

1 Corinthians 13:7 Love never gives up; and its faith, hope, and patience never fail.