Obituary of Olivia P. Ridley

Olivia Potter Ridley, age 76, of Bath, N.Y., passed away unexpectedly, Friday, July 28,

2017. Olivia was born and raised in Penn Yan, N.Y., the daughter of Lyndon and Ann Potter.

She graduated from East Texas State University with a BA in 1962 and a MA in 1963, both in

English/Education.

She married her jr. high sweetheart, Benjamin Ridley, in 1960 who remained the love of

her life for 57 years, Olivia began teaching English at Bath Central School in 1963 and remained

there for 35 years until her retirement. In addition, she taught college courses through Corning

Community College and Alfred State. She was a member of NCTE and could be found in three

editions of Who's Who Among America's Teachers. Teaching was one of her greatest passions

with a focus on broadening students' understanding and views of the world.

Her optimism and love of life can be found in everyone that knew her and as an organ

donor, she has given others the opportunity to cherish life, as she did so well. Olivia was an avid

traveler, having visited over 30 countries and enjoyed reading and gardening.

She is survived by Benjamin Ridley Sr., her children Benjamin Ridley, Jr. (Connie

Lamphear), Kirsten Ridley Calkins (Richard), three grandchildren Connor, Logan and Kalista

Calkins and three sisters Lynda Ann Ewen, Dorinne Bilger and Christina (Ron) Moraski.

A memorial service will be held at Bath High School on August 20th. In lieu of flowers,

the family requests that donations be sent to Doctors Without Borders or the International

Rescue Committee and hopes that her passing will encourage people to become part of an

Organ Donor registry. Olivia, herself, requests that grandparents go out to dinner with their

grandchildren and share cherished family stories. There was no greater joy for her than

spending time with loved ones.