Gussie Ellen Ridgeway

Gussie Ellen Humphrys Ridgeway, age 87, passed away on August 3, 2026, peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories. Throughout a life well lived, Gussie touched the hearts of family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Gussie was born on March 17, 1939, in a house in Polk County, Tennessee. She received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and retired as a microbiologist from Hutchenson Medical Center. She loved researching family history and attending the Fetzer Family reunion every Labor Day weekend.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Donald Ridgeway, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage; her parents, Lillian Ruth Fetzer Humphrys and Charles Sidney Humphrys; and her brother, Charles Eddy Humphys.

She is survived by her daughter, Donna Allen and husband Tony; her grandchildren, Austin Allen and wife Carlie, and Ashley Allen; her brother, Bill Humphrys and wife Barbara; her sister-in-law, Helen Ridgeway; and special nieces, Annette Wilson-Fox and husband Steve, and Angie Hicks and husband Doug. Plus many other special family members and friends.

The family will receive family and friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on August 8, 2026 in the Ridge Sanctuary of Companion Funeral and Cremation Service located at 2412 Georgetown Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37311. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Companion Funeral Home Ridge Sanctuary, with Travis Humbard officiating. Burial will take place afterward at Benton Cemetery.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Gussie or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service Cleveland Chapel and the Cody family are honored to assist the Ridgeway family with these arrangements.