Arthur Baldridge, a longtime resident of Pierceton, passed away unexpectedly at his residence on Monday, Sept. 16, 2019. He was 83 years old.
Born on Aug. 19, 1936, in Blue River Ky., he was the son of Andrew and Sally Ousley Baldridge. On June 14, 1955, he was married to Renis Bradley, who preceded him in death on July 26, 2013. Together, they shared nearly 60 years, four sons and one daughter.
Arthur was a family man through and through. He enjoyed spending time with them while fishing, while driving to get bologna and bread on Sundays, while visiting extended family and just anytime. He loved life and was the glue of his family, approaching every situation with a mischievous grin – he made everything, and everyone, feel OK. He rarely knew a stranger and was always sure to get his sweets fix, a special time which he shared with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Professionally, Arthur worked for Dalton Foundry (16 years) and later for OMC in Syracuse, where he was a boat inspector. He retired in 2000. He was previously a member of the Eagles and attended the former Full Gospel Pentecostal Church in Silver Lake.
Those who survive include his children, James Arthur (Sally) Baldridge, of Columbia City; Johnny Wallace (Sandra) Baldridge, of Pierceton; Nona Annette (Kerry) Hughes, of Pierceton; and Tab Leon (Patricia) Baldridge, of Claypool; 25 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy (Carl) Slone, of Warsaw; and daughter-in-law, Jane Baldridge-Hughes, of Silver Lake.
In addition to his wife, Renis Baldridge, those who preceded him in passing include his son, Jerry Randy Baldridge (husband of Jane); three brothers, Andrew Jack Baldridge, William Baldridge and Monroe Baldridge; three sisters, Virginia Prater, Rebecca Whitaker and May Ousley; and two great-grandchildren. Kali Ann Akers and Daniel Blake Hatfield.
Arthur’s funeral service will be held at Full Gospel Tabernacle Church, 250 North Main Street in Claypool, on Friday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. Visitation will begin on Thursday, Sept. 19 at 2 p.m. in the church and will continue until the time of the Friday afternoon service. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton. Pastor Carl Hughes will preside with Titus Funeral Home assisting the family.
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Memorials at Titus Funeral Home, 2000 East Sheridan Street, Warsaw.
Condolences may be left on their website at www.TitusFuneralHome.com.
