New Cumberland, West Virginia - Richard Forest Ridenour, 85, of Whitehall passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026,in New Cumberland, WV, in the care and home of his loving daughter Lora and her family.He was born in Fairmont on July 21, 1940, a son of the late Forest Harold and Mary Alice (Hostuller) Ridenour.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was also a proud retired member of the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry. He was a member of the Galilean Baptist Church of Whitehall. Richard loved all things outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and boating enthusiast, and enjoyed the simple pleasure of walking his property and taking in the fresh air of nature.

Richard is survived by his son, Scott Alan Ridenour of Whitehall; his daughter, Lora Lynn Graf and her husband Jim of New Cumberland; his grandchildren, Austin Graf, Amber Graf and her husband, Matthew Shaffer, William Graf, Lyndon Graf, and Jordan Graf; his sister Diane Malone and her husband Dave of Smithtown; and his brother-in-law Frank Billingham of Morgantown.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Carol Lee Ridenour, on December 7, 2020.

The family of Richard would like to thank the VA Medical Center of Clarksburg, Valley Hospice, and their staff for the wonderful care and love shown to him.

Friends may call at Carpenter and Ford Funeral Home, 209 Merchant Street, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and again on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A service will be held at 11:00 am with Pastor James Solomon presiding. A private interment will take place at The West Virginia National Cemetery. Full military honors will be presented by The Marion County Honor Guard and The United States Navy.

Expressions of sympathy can be extended to the family at carpenterandford.com

Carpenter and Ford Funeral Home is honored to serve The Ridenour Family.