Ridge Funeral Home

04/03/2026

Make your wishes clear before your family has to wonder. Preplanning at Ridge Funeral Home & Cremation Service ensures your arrangements reflect your values. To meet with Owner and Funeral Director Nancy Swaringen, call (336) 626-2115.

04/02/2026

Richard M. Hornback

Richard M. Hornback, 63, of Randleman, passed away Monday, March 30, 2026, at his home.

Richard was born on April 5, 1962, in Columbus, IN, the son of the late Milburn and Reyburn Heath Hornback. He was retired from the United States Postal Service. He found great enjoyment with fixing things and learning how things work. Mr. Hornback was an avid baseball fan, always cheering for his favorite team, the Cincinnati Reds.

Richard is survived by his wife, Cyndy Hornback; daughter, Stephanie Hornback; son, Bradley Hornback (Krutika); sisters, Teresa Kercher (Kenny), Bonnie Banks, Tonya Keathley; brother, Milburn Eugene Hornback (Dana); and grandchild, Evelyn Hornback.

Memorials may be made to Whynot Wesleyan Church, 1402 NC Highway 705 East, Seagrove, NC 27341.

04/01/2026

Hilda Strider Smith

Hilda Strider Smith, a devoted mother, pioneering entrepreneur, and lifelong bridge enthusiast, passed away peacefully on March 31st at the age of 85.

The family will be gathering to celebrate Hilda at the Flying Pig in Asheboro on Friday, April 3 from 2-4pm. Please feel welcome to attend.

Born in 1941, Hilda lived a life defined by her commitment to her family, enduring friendships and boundless energy. Hilda was a trailblazer in her community. Alongside her mother, Zada, and her sister, Phyllis, she co-founded Pleasingly Plump, a boutique clothing store that they successfully operated for over 20 years. As a female entrepreneur in an era when such roles weren’t the norm, their boutique served as a space that empowered women and was a staple of the local business community.

Beyond her work, many of Hilda’s treasured memories were the summers spent on Lake Tillery. It was a backdrop for her to enjoy her family and the many lake friends that were made. A lifelong resident of Asheboro, she spent many decades learning and playing Bridge with an amazing group of friends, who remained an important part of her life through to the end. She was a proud Red Hat Society member which added to her active social calendar. Hilda loved going places and was never satisfied being idle. She could frequently be seen around town in one of her many hats - she never went out without one.

During Hilda’s sickness, she maintained a positive outlook and in good spirits. Her legacy of love and strength lives on through her family; her children, Todd Smith (Amy) and Elizabeth Olig (Cameron); grandchildren, Derick, Rebekah, Zachary, Zada, and Henry; and great grandchild, Mackenzie. The family wishes to acknowledge Betty Starrette, an amazing caregiver to Hilda during the past year. Because of her, our Mom was able to continue living her best life even when she could no longer live independently.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Zada Strider, her husband, Douglas Q. Smith, , and her sister and best friend, Phyllis Murray.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, that donations may be made to Asheboro Public Library Foundation, 201 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203.

View Hilda Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/01/2026

Ridge Funeral Home & Cremation Service proudly supports our nation's veterans. We're dedicated to securing and managing their burial and survivor benefits. If you're a veteran or a family member, call us at (336) 626-2115. It's our way of thanking you for your service.

03/31/2026

Ralph Cooper, Sr.

Ralph Hinson Cooper, Sr., 76, of Asheboro, died Monday, March 30, 2026, at his residence.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026, at his home, 549 Tall Pine Street Ext., Asheboro.

Born in Guilford Co., NC, on June 2, 1949, Mr. Cooper was the son of the late Fenley Randolph Cooper and Ora Gladys Taylor Cooper. He had retired as an upholsterer from Carolina Custom. Working in the yard and his garden, along with fishing and doing puzzles, were some of his favorite pastimes. But the most important thing in his life was his family, who he loved dearly.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Cooper was preceded in death by his brothers, Jim Phillips and Ronnie Phillips.

He is survived by his wife, Hilda Cooper; sons, Ralph Cooper, Jr. (Tracy), Shawn Cooper, Michael Cooper (Angie); brother, Robert Phillips; grandchildren, Megan Cooper, Ryan Cooper (Josephine), Sarah Cooper, Ashley Cooper, Seth Cooper; great grandchildren, Christian Cooper, Elijah Coleman, Rose Hannah, Aylin Cooper, Arabella Cooper, Amelia Cooper, Amaya Cooper, and Jeremiah Cooper.

View Ralph Cooper, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/31/2026

Louise Martindale

Mary Louise Frye Martindale, 84, of Seagrove, NC, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, surrounded by her family, at her residence.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel with Chaplain Tommy Kidd officiating. Burial will follow at Union Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, Seagrove.

Born in Thomasville, NC, on April 20, 1941, Louise was the daughter of the late Greer Leon Frye and Minnie Virla Butler Frye. Louise found peace in her vegetable garden and was known to "out-pick and out-can" anyone in the neighborhood, a testament to her hard work and skill. Her kitchen was the heart of the home. An exceptional cook, she took pride in preparing everything from scratch, including her signature soups and turkey dressing. The holidays were her favorite time to shine with her traditional cooking. She approached her household with the same dedication she gave her garden, maintaining a meticulous and orderly home that reflected her care for her family. She also made flowers arrangement sprays with homemade full bows and adorned deceased family members’ burial sites and took pride in changing them out with seasons. Louise had a wonderful memory of dates and details whether it was birthdates or deathdates or marriages. Beyond her practical talents, Louise had a lifelong love for singing. Louise would often call her family members celebrating a birthday and sing the “happy birthday” song to them for years.

A natural caretaker, she found her greatest joy in serving others, ensuring that everyone who visited her felt welcomed and nourished. She was known for her generous spirit, famously making sure that no guest ever left her home empty-handed.

Louise began her career at Walker Shoe, where she met her future husband, Windol. Later in life, His words to her were “You was my first wife and you’ll be my last wife... I love you” He was devoted to her in every way and she to him for 62 years. She later retired from Luck's Beans.

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her son, Benny Lee Chrisco; daughters, Cathy Crisco Pugh, Tammy Crisco Pugh; sisters, Betty Barker, Doris Lineberry; grandchildren, Kristy Lanier Barringer, Jennifer Louise Pugh, Benny Lee Chrisco, Jr.; and in-laws, Dewey and Daphne Martindale.

Louise is survived her loving husband of 62 years, Windol D. Martindale of the home; daughters, Debra Louise Crisco Stout of Asheboro, Gayla Dawn Martindale (John) of Bennett; son, Keith Windol Martindale of Seagrove; sister, Patricia Frye Walker of Asheboro; brothers, Jerry Leon Frye (Ellen ) of Ramseur, John Wesley Frye (Mary) of Apex; grandchildren listed oldest to youngest, Misty Bullard, Jody Pugh (Tammy), Robbie Pugh, Jason Pugh, Justin Pugh, Joshua Martindale (Jenna), Alicia Martindale, Megan Stout; and five great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home.

A special thank you is extended from the family to Gentiva Hospice for their special care provided during this difficult time. Especially to Theresa, Christin, Ashley, Darcy, Charlie, and Chaplain Tommy Kidd.

Memorials may be made to Dementia Society of America, PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.

View Louise Martindale's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/31/2026

Kirby Ray Burroughs

Kirby Ray Burroughs, 76, of Star, died Monday, March 30, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice & Palliative Care in West End.

Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Asbury Baptist Church, Seagrove, where he was a member. Private burial will be at Tucker Freeman Cemetery in Star.

Born on August 29, 1949, in Montgomery County, NC, Kirby was the son of the late Reid Washington Burroughs and Mary Hall Burroughs. Kirby loved taking care of his garden and yard. He was extremely proud of his motorcycle. He also enjoyed watching Westerns on TV. He will surely be missed by his family.

In addition to his parents, Kirby was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Burroughs and his sister, Joyce Latham.

Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Brenda Freeman Burroughs of the home; daughter, Karen Lester (Paul) of Pleasant Garden; sons, Ken Burroughs (Donna) of Asheboro, Kevin Burroughs (Shauna) of Asheboro; sister, Betty Trantham of Star; grandchildren, Caroline Burroughs, Jace Burroughs, P.J. Lester, Austin Burroughs, Kurstin Burroughs, Chevy Burroughs, Kamdyn Therrell; and great grandchildren, Lyrik Owenby and Paisley Burroughs.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, prior to the service at Asbury Baptist Church, Seagrove.

View Kirby Ray Burroughs's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/30/2026

Before and after a service, there are special moments when immediate family members turn to each other for strength. They also turn to staff members like Funeral Assistant Roy McNeil, who provide compassion and support for the families in our care at Ridge Funeral Home & Cremation Service. (336) 626-2115

03/28/2026

Elizabeth Brooks

Mary Elizabeth Wieters Brooks, 79, of Asheboro, passed away Friday, March 27, 2026, at The Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church, with Dr. Jody Harrison officiating. Burial will follow at Hoover's Grove Wesleyan Church Cemetery.

Elizabeth was born on February 2, 1947, in Bryson City, NC. The daughter of the late John Christopher Wieters and Maria Saunders Wieters. She was a dedicated hard worker, who retired from Randolph Community College and worked for South Western Randolph High School, Middle School, and the YMCA. Elizabeth loved the thrill of winning a bid at auction sales, and had a knack for being able to find a forever home for a stray animal. She will always be remembered as being protective and nurturing for her family. Elizabeth loved her family; her children and her grandchildren was her world.

In addition to her parents, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her son, Christopher Thad Brooks.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Lester Lynn Brooks; daughter, Lydia Nance (Steven); sons, Clay Brooks (Rhonda), Daniel Brooks; grandchildren, Jacob Nance, Jadon Nance, Rachael Brooks, Shylee Brooks, Ashlyn Nance, Aviana Nance, Abigail Nance, and Aliza Nance.

The family will receive friends from 9:45 until 10:45 a.m., Wednesday at the church prior to the service.

The family wants to thank all the staff from the Emergency Department, to ICU and Recovery at High Point Regional Hospital for the care shown to Elizabeth.

Memorials may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 4836 Robbins Circle, Asheboro, NC 27205.

View Elizabeth Brooks's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/28/2026

Fayetta Miller Craven

Gloria Fayetta Miller Craven, age 91, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, and went to be with the Lord.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Garry Reeder officiating. A burial will follow at 1:00 p.m., at Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery.

Fayetta was born on April 14, 1934, in Wheelwright, Kentucky, one of eleven children. As a young adult, she relocated to Thomasville, where she was first employed by Belk-Yates. She later began a long and dedicated career with Thomasville Furniture Industries, where she worked for 25 years.

After moving to Thomasville, she met and married Rayvaun “Cricket” Miller in 1953, and together they had two children. They remained married until his passing in 1979. In 1980, she married Loyd C. Craven, who preceded her in death in 2024.

Fayetta is survived by her children, Dennis Keith Miller of Pinehurst and Terri Miller Swaney (Gregory) of Thomasville; her siblings, Estella Hall Kearns (Ed) of Denton, Carl Ray Hall of Asheboro, and Evan Hall Jr. (Sherry) of Seagrove; her grandchildren, Stefanie Swaney Smoot (Scott) of Thomasville, Kacie Miller Teeter (Kyle) of Statesville, and Cameron Keith Miller of Holden Beach; and her great-grandchildren, Anna Redding Teeter, Charlotte Teeter, Grace Teeter, and Faith Teeter, all of Statesville. She is also survived by three stepchildren: Ann Gilliland of Seagrove, Deborah Willet of Franklinville, and Mark Craven of Asheboro.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Reonna Hall Johnson (Sylvan), Jesse Hall (Ruby), Bobby Hall (Eda), Ernie Hall, Shirley Hall Daniel (Roscoe), and Louise Hall Welch (Russell).

Fayetta devoted her life to her family and was known for her kindness, loving nature, and the warmth she shared through her home-cooked meals. She will be remembered for her deep love of family and her steadfast faith, which she faithfully demonstrated as a devoted member of Richland Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the choir.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, at Ridge Funeral Home prior to the service.

View Fayetta Miller Craven's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/27/2026

Ridge Funeral Home & Cremation Service is dedicated to providing a caring and compelling environment for life celebrations. We're also dedicated to offering the best funeral value possible. For pricing, call (336) 626-2115.

03/25/2026

Betty Williams

Betty Jean Williams, 87, of Thomasville, died Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Pine Ridge Health & Rehabilitation in Thomasville.

There are no services scheduled at this time.

Betty was born on December 18, 1938, in Hendersonville, NC, the daughter of the late William Jason Williams and Allie Vaughn Williams Beddingfield. She was formerly employed with Sky City and later retired as a store manager for Family Dollar in Thomasville.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her ex-husband, Benny Proctor.

Betty is survived by her children, Katrina Varner (Tim) of Lansing, NC, Teresa Rich (Macon) of Staunton, VA, Raven Keene (Donald), Eugene Cox (Wanda) of Thomasville, NC, Doug Proctor (Tommye) of Kernersville, NC; eight grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

View Betty Williams's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.