Deacon Carlton V. Ridley, Jr.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and delight in his way.” Psalms 37:23 Carlton Veonus Ridley, Jr. was a man of God, with a heart for harmony, a hand for mankind, and a love for life. “A TIME TO BE BORN” “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor than silver and gold.” Proverbs 22:1 Carlton Veonus Ridley Jr. was born September 8, 1948, to the late Carlton Sr. and Julia Ridley. He was the oldest of four children. He was indeed the epitome of an ideal “Big Brother,” fondly known as “Jr.” as he demonstrated characteristics of love and devotion to his siblings. He was also, a role model for them to imitate. “A TIME TO LIVE” “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 His formal education was with the Kansas City, Missouri School District. He attended D.A. Holmes Elementary, Central Middle School, and Central High School, where he graduated in 1969. Later, he furthered his education by attending Community Junior College in Kansas City, Missouri. His favorite subject was history. “When a man finds a woman …” Proverbs 18:22 “C.V.” or “Ridley,” as he was affectionately called by his wife, was united in holy matrimony by Rev. R.C. Higgs at Bethel Baptist Church, in Kansas City, Kansas to Kathryn Lee Maddox on June 15, 1977. This was the beginning of a marriage of 47 years. Through the commitment of marriage vows, their favorite matrimony song, “Inseparable,” was indeed a melody both could claim as “dear to their hearts.” “I must work the works of Him that sent me while it is day.” John 9:4 His business career began at General Motors. Other employments were with North American/Eagle Communications, St. Luke Hospital, and Shanna and Ace Carriers. Acquiring work ethics from his parents, he joined the family businesses Ridley’s Janitorial Service, Ridley’s Complex of Fine Foods, and Blue Hills/LeClub Restaurant and Lounge. As the oldest sibling, the daily operations of these businesses were spearheaded by his business acumen, innovation, and creativity. His day-to-day responsibilities were to bid on all contracts and negotiate favorable terms. He was known as the public relations for the company. He introduced the W.I.N. Program into the family business, which was known for assisting women who received state subsidies. The program helped them obtain gainful employment and provided training that allowed them to advance into higher positions. Through Carlton Jr.’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, the janitorial business soared. Ridley’s Janitorial was featured in the Kansas City Star Newspaper, being named as the Minority Business of the Year. The company received other prominent and notable contracts with the: Internal Revenue Service, Federal Building, Jackson County Bank, Jackson County Courthouse, Department of Agriculture, Board of Elections, etc. The company employed over four hundred employees. As a valuable and key employee in the family business, he worked diligently and loyally for the success and rise of Ridley’s Janitorial Service. After the passing of his brother, Rufus, and his parents, Carlton Jr. maintained the family business and continued the operations. During his passing, he held a contract with L.A. Jones and Sons Mortuary. “Let your light so shine that they may see your good works and glorify your Father, which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 Carlton was indeed a visionary. He worked hard overseeing jobs that provided for his family. He fulfilled the calling of a supportive, loving, generous and intelligent husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and businessman. He had a profound love of music and lovingly played the piano and organ to help bring others together. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once said, “Music is the universal language of mankind,” and this could be said as the motto for Carlton’s life. His hobbies also included fishing and playing dominoes. Carlton was a gentleman. He took pride in his appearance and was often referred to as “Mr. Debonair” because of his love for hats, sophisticated attire, and suave demeanor. When he wore his top hat, he was often called “The Godfather.” “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 Carlton joined the Friendship Baptist Church in 1956. He was baptized and served under the late Rev I.H. Henderson Jr. He proclaimed his religious beliefs under the spiritual guidance of Rev. C.E McClain, Rev. Manual Dillingham, and Rev James A. Terrance Jr. He was ordained as a Deacon on Dec 2, 2007 and took his appointment seriously; serving as a leader in the Issachar Sheepfold under the supervision of Deacon Raymond Davis Sr. He was also committed to other ministries, such as, Boys to Men, Greeter Ministry, Sunday School Class #12, Male Chorus, and serving communion. Carlton was also a regular attendee of Wonderful Wednesday Bible Study as he studied to show himself approved unto God. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, and I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 During his numerous hospital visits, his wife, Kathryn, devised a scripture board that helped them keep the faith as they continued to trust in the Lord. After each of Carlton’s hospital discharges, a charity or special project was selected as a celebration of God’s blessings, grace and mercy to him. Taking it to the streets, fans were donated to the Salvation Army and book bags, gloves, hats and blankets were donated to the homeless. “A TIME TO DIE” “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another comforter, the he may abide with you.” John 14:16 We loved Carlton Jr. dearly, but God loved him best. On February 28, 2025, it was his appointed time to go home to the Lord. God wrapped his arms around him, whispered “come with me,” and then allowed him to take his rest. Family members who preceded him in death were waiting to welcome him when God opened the gates: Daughter, Angela Ridley; Son-in-Law, Jason Mathews; Grandson, Carlton V. Ridley IV; Parents, Carlton Ridley Sr.; and Julia Ridley; Brother, Rufus Ridley; Sister, Daisy Stephenson; Niece, Carla Williams; Father and Mother-in-Law, Johnny and Johnnie Maddox; and Sisters and Brother-in-Law, Jessie Marshall, Juanita Denis, and Clarence Maddox. He leaves to cherish his memory: Wife, Kathryn Ridley; Children, Carleeta Mathews, Carlton V. Ridley III; Grandchildren, Amya, Andrew, Ashley, Carlin, Chelsea, Crystal, Crysen, Ronald (McKenzie); Sister, Beatrice Dodd (Furman Sr.); Sisters and Brothers-in-Law, Beverly (Marvin) Baylis; Bettye Maddox; Johnny (Brenda) Maddox; Darryl Marshall; Barbara Ridley; and Ronald Stephenson; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday March 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Friendship Baptist Church 3530 Chelsea Drive KCMO 64128. Interment: Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation: 1-2 p.m. at the Church. There will be another Visitation: Friday March 14, 2025, from 6-8:00 p.m. at Watkin Heritage Chapel 4000 Emanuel Cleaver II Blvd, KCMO 64130. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com

Deacon Carlton V. Ridley, Jr.

September 8, 1948 - February 28, 2025