Bertha Ridley's Obituary
Mother Bertha Preston Ridley was born on July 29, 1945, in Dalton, Georgia to the late Louis and Annie Bell Preston. She was the youngest of 22 children whom all preceded her in death. Bertha was affectionately called “Bert” by her family and friends.
At an early age Bert moved to Detroit, Michigan with her mother and older siblings. At the age of 22 years old Bert started working at Sinai Hospital (Detroit) as a Housekeeper for 25 years. Later in life Bertha moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee and started working at Memorial Hospital for many years until she retired. During those years, Bertha met the man of her dreams, Robert Ridley and they soon fell in love, married, and lived their life unapologetically until Robert’s demise.
Mother Ridley was a faithful member of Olivet Baptist Church until her health began to fail. She was a devoted member of the Mother’s Board Ministry; she sang in the choir and regularly donated to several organizations which included St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Bertha enjoyed her life. She was as sweet as she could be. Always willing to help others in need. She loved all her neighbors around the Chateau West Complex. She was a God-fearing woman who was always praying and reading her Bible. Her favorite saying was “Y’all better get your life right, God is coming”.
Mother Bertha Ridley, 80, passed away Friday, April 17, 2026, at 4:25 p.m. with her family by her bedside.
Bertha was proceeded in death by her husband, Robert Ridley, parents, siblings, and grandchildren, Michael Alexander and Miracle Swan.
She leaves to cherish her memories, her son, Michael Swan; stepson, Reginald Wilson; daughters, Sonora Swan and Tracy Swan, all of Detroit, Michigan; 21 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Bertha will lie-in-state on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12:00 noon in the chapel with Mr. Johnny Foster as the Eulogist.
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