George Edward Ridens Jr.

George Edward Ridens Jr, 70, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Thursday, April 16, 2026, at home.

George was born on March 30, 1956, to George and Joyce (Douglas) Ridens Sr. in Crescent City, California. He married Sheryl Ann (Shaw) Ridens on August 23, 1975, in Bolivar, Missouri.

George graduated as Valedictorian from Norwood High School in 1974. He was an all-state basketball player and held the record for most points per game for some time! George was of the Christian faith and a member of First Baptist Church in Mountain Grove. George proudly served as a Missouri State Highway Patrolman for over 35 years. During his career, he served at Troop G and Troop E before retiring as Troop Commander in 2016. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, piddling in the garage, playing basketball, hanging out by the pool, and tending to the yard (and his kids). George loved his family dearly and was happiest when he was near them.

George is survived by his parents, George and Joyce; loving wife of 50 years, Sheryl Ridens; two children, Chris (Shelly) Ridens and Jera (Robert) Morse; sister, Geneva Elaine (Randy) Dugger; brother, Gary (Geraldine) Earl Ridens; five grandchildren, Caden Ridens, Jordyn Ridens, Paige Morse, Robert Morse Jr., and Austyn Morse; along with numerous extended family and friends.

George was preceded in death by his sister, Geri Elynn Copeland and nephew, Duane Copeland

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 10:00am-12:00pm at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at Noon with Pastor Zach Williams officiating. Burial will take place at Thomas Cemetery in Norwood, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mr. George E. Ridens.