Steve Riddle

     Steve Riddle, age 79, of Berts Creek, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Steve lived a full life marked by hard work, deep relationships, and a steadfast faith.

     Steve spent his life working with his hands, building a legacy through careers in construction, farming, and mining. He was a hardworking man who instilled strong values in his children and grandchildren—often through simple but meaningful lessons of working with their hands on the farm. His work ethic and perseverance shaped generations of his family.

     He was known for his kind heart and his deep love for his family. Affectionately known as “Big Dad” to his grandchildren, Steve treasured every moment spent with them. He often said that the closest thing to heaven on earth was holding a baby, which was a reflection of the tenderness and joy he found in his growing family.

     Steve was a loyal and faithful friend. He could often be found on the phone with his best friend Johnny Ray, never missing a beat in their ongoing conversations. Once you were a friend to Steve, you were always considered a friend. 

     He also had a gift for storytelling—captivating those around him with tales about his rough and wild life that were unforgettable, even if they were occasionally exaggerated, much to the amusement (and correction) of his wife, Opal.

     Above all, Steve was a man of faith who eagerly anticipated the return of Christ. He took comfort in the fact that his front porch faced the east, where he believed he would one day see his Savior return. Now, the hope he held so dearly has been fulfilled, as he rejoices in the presence of the Lord he loved.

     Though he raised his family in Georgia, Steve always considered Robbinsville, North Carolina his true home. It was here that he learned to love the outdoors—hunting, farming, caring for animals, and spending time with those he loved most.

     Steve is survived by his loving wife, Opal Riddle; his son, Scott Riddle and wife Liane; his daughter, Jade Guarnieri and husband Frank; his ten grandchildren: Alex Riddle and wife Brittany, Brittany Haynes and husband Justin, Mary Adcock and husband Chase, John Riddle, Summer Zimmer and husband Will, Stephanie Tomlinson and husband Jackson, Evan Riddle, Leslea Tilley, and James Tilley; sixteen great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, John Riddle and Maude Wiggins Riddle; his firstborn son, John Mitchell Riddle; his nine brothers, Paul, Clyde, Con, Dave, Ira, Roscoe, Don, Rex, and Dee; and his four sisters, Gladys, Girtha, Cora Lee, and Mattie Belle.

     Steve Riddle will be remembered as a devoted family man, a faithful friend, a tireless worker, and a man who loved the Lord. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.

 Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Townson-Smith Chapel.  Reverend Daniel Stewart will officiate.  Burial will follow the service at Wiggins Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 12:00 till 1:00 pm Wednesday at the Chapel prior to the service.

     Townson-Smith Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Riddle Family.