Thomas Aldon Ridings

In Loving Memory of Thomas Aldon Ridings, born August 3, 1937, and passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on November 5, 2026 at the age of 89.

Mr. Ridings was born in Rutherford County, NC, to the late Will Thomas “Tommy” Ridings and Mary Bertha Rowe Ridings. Blind from birth, Aldon never allowed his lack of sight to define his abilities or limit the life he wanted to live. He attended the North Carolina School for the Blind and later graduated from Cedar Springs High School.

In 1968, he moved his family to Asheville, NC, after accepting a position with NCI, Inc. He worked in the company’s machine shop as a deburr operator, where he remained dedicated to his work until his retirement. His years of employment reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

Aldon possessed a remarkable spirit of independence, tenacity, and adventure. He enjoyed many of life’s simple pleasures, including riding a bicycle, swimming, and fishing. He embraced life on his own terms and demonstrated that a person’s possibilities are not defined by what they cannot see. His perseverance and willingness to experience all that life had to offer were defining qualities that those who knew him will remember.

He was also a gifted musician whose love for music was evident throughout his life. A talented guitar player with a beautiful singing voice, he especially loved country western music. He shared his musical talents for many years as a member of his band, The Sundowners. The band performed at the VFW and Moose Lodge in Asheville, entertaining audiences and bringing people together through their shared love of country music. Music was more than a pastime for Aldon; it was a passion and an important part of who he was. His voice, musical talent, independent spirit, and the memories he created through his performances will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Mildred Hutchins Ridings, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, family, and memories. He is also survived by his daughters, Myra Johnson (Gary), of Simpsonville, SC, Laura Joyner (Charlie), of Inman, SC, and Kelly Smith, of Asheville; and his son, Jeff (Denise), of Asheville.
He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren, Ashleigh Rice, Blake O’Kelley, Brent and Jansen Ridings, along with five great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Ridings was also preceded in death by his ten siblings.

Aldon will be remembered for his determination, independence, love of music, and devotion to his family. His life was a testament to perseverance and the belief that life’s possibilities should never be limited by circumstances. Though he will be deeply missed, the songs he sang, the memories he created, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to CarePartners Solace Center c/o Darbi Ford, 21 Belvedere Road, Asheville, NC 28803, or to The Governor Morehead School for the Blind c/o Mike Perkins, Governor Morehead Foundation, 7413 Six Forks Road, #207, Raleigh, NC 27615.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.