Carolyn Barbara DeRidder

Carolyn attended Ramapo College, where she met the love of her life, James R. DeRidder. From the beginning of their love story they were inseparable. Their friends used to joke that if one showed up, the other would be close behind.

James and Carolyn married on March 28, 1973, and soon became the parents of four children. Carolyn had the valiant job of a stay at home mom, while also being an independent business consultant, CampFire leader, softball coach, and substitute teacher. She was a dedicated church volunteer, clerical worker, and AWANA leader. 

Throughout her whole life, Carolyn could strike up a friendship with anyone she met, and would welcome people into her home with open arms. Her Italian sauce that took three days to make was a staple during DeRidder Christmas and New Years, and her hugs were legendary.

Carolyn was an avid fan of Yankees baseball, bowling, puzzles, Hallmark movies, and crafts. However, there was nothing Carolyn loved more than being surrounded by her family members. Carolyn was her family’s number one cheerleader. 

She is survived by her devoted husband James R. DeRidder, her son James A. DeRidder, daughter Michelle Scott and son-in law Robert Scott, daughter Debra Gates and son-in law Matthew Gates, daughter Jessica Watson and son-in law Paul Watson, and her three siblings, Meg Miller, Giovina Rooney, and Martin Rooney. Carolyn is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Lydia, Julia, Elizabeth, Andrew, Anna, Chloe, Evelyn, Jace and Ryan. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Faith Community Church, 1306 Riedel Road Gambrills, MD 21054 on April 15, at 12pm. A Zoom link is available upon request, email watson.jessicaj@yahoo.com. The family is requesting written favorite stories and/or a copy of a favorite picture of Carolyn. A scrapbook will be created.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance at www.ocrahope.org

Faith Community Church at www.faithcommunity.net

Luminis Health Cancer Care- Cancer Center in Annapolis at www.aahs.org