Mother Mary Riddly

Missionary Mary Evelyn Hagler Riddly was born on April 4, 1938, in Pulaski, Illinois. She was the eldest child of Florence Geneva Taylor Hagler and George Albert Hagler, both of whom preceded her in death. Early Life and Education A gifted student from a young age, Missionary Riddly demonstrated academic excellence early on. She graduated from John M. Smyth Elementary School one year ahead of schedule after receiving a double promotion. Following her graduation from Richard T. Crane High School, she pursued a career in healthcare. Professional Career and Ministry Mary’s life was defined by her service to others and her deep faith: Nursing: She studied at the Cregier LPN School of Nursing and dedicated her professional life to the field of nursing while working at University of Illinois Research Hospital until her retirement. Childcare: Following her retirement, her love for children became her central focus. She initially babysat for her sisters’ and brother’s children. Later she co-owned and operated Divinity Christian Academy, Pre K through High School, alongside her sister, Dr. Gloria Lymon (Skopie). Mary’s emphasis was in early childhood education. Theology: A true woman of God, she deepened her spiritual commitment by earning a Degree in Theology from The International Apostolic University of Grace and Truth. Missionary Riddly is remembered as a devoted caregiver, a lifelong learner, a steadfast pillar of her faith community, and an extraordinary Travel Agent. Travel Agent: This faith-filled woman who worked as a Travel Agent carried more than itineraries - she carried purpose, discernment, and the presence of God with everyone’s child into every journey she planned, which included many states throughout the country. Missionary: Mary Riddly was a mighty missionary, who inspired many saints as well as sinners to aspire to higher heights and deeper depths in the Lord. As a young missionary, no job was too difficult or too small. She readily had us cleaning the church, performing in plays, staying for Friday Night Shut-ins and selling dinners on Saturdays, frequently. She put on Tom Thumb Weddings with the children, as well as Easter and Christmas Programs. During her later years, she was President of the Women’s Department and President of the Mother’s Board. She also spent many years as the Adult Sunday School Teacher. She was active in her Local, District, and State ministries for many years. After fighting the good fight and keeping the faith, “she was raptured” on April 11, 2026, at 09:44 A.M. while sleeping. Marriage: Missionary Mary Hagler married Arthur Burnett and they had 2 sons, Arthur Jr. and Michael Burnett. She later married Elder Willie Riddly and along with her 2 sons, they became a family. They all preceded her in death. Family: She leaves to her memories her siblings, Administrative Assistant Dr. Harley E. (Sylvia) Hagler; Clotee Falkner and Dr. Brenda Thomas; one brother in law Deacon Willie Lymon; her daughter in love, Vera Burnett; grandchildren Michelle Burnett and Ashley Mason; great grandchildren, Luke Barnes, Lauren Ward, and Aaliyah, Khalil, and Keenan Tiimberlake; 9 nieces, 4 nephews, 14 great nieces and 20 great nephews; her God children, Donna Sconiers, Patricia and Michael Adams’ family, and Shaletta Little. Missionary Riddly has joined those who have gone on before her. Sisters Dr. Gloria Lymon, & Gwendolyn Marie Clincy, her brothers-in- law Eddie Clincy, & Willie Thomas and sister- in-law Missionary Emma Hagler A Special Love to all of her many other relatives, friends, and church family.

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