Bernice Schmitt Ridgway, 86, a long-time Pensacola resident, passed peacefully on Friday, December 29, 2023.

Bernice was born in Louisville, KY in 1937 to Vincent Aster Scannell and Thelma (Lehman) Scannell. She was raised by Maria Theresa Lehman and Conrad Arthur Schmitt. Bernice attended St. Mary of the Woods College, and later received her AA at the University of Louisville. After receiving her diploma, she married Jim Ridgway, a PhD chemist. Bernice and Jim moved their family in 1968 to Pensacola, FL, where they raised their family. Berni and her family were active in her faith. She was a founding member of Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church. Berni and Jim traveled together and shared their dreams going to such places as Ireland, Wales, England, Hawaii, Alaska, Scotland, and France. They took cruises together and truly celebrated their love of travel.

She is survived by her sons, Keith Ridgway (Cheryl) and Brian Ridgway; her four grandchildren, Sarah Kathryn Ridgway, Shaun Alexandra Carroll (Jonathan "JR"), Morgan Ridgway, and Cole Sheen Ridgway; as well as her great-granddaughter, Lorelei Mulligan.

A Memorial Mass will be held at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church. Committal Service will follow at Eastern Gate Memorial Gardens. For service specifics, please contact Keith or Brian Ridgway.

The family would like to give a special thanks to all the caregivers, nurses, and angels with Covenant Care Hospice, Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, and the Arbor's of Gulf Breeze for their excellent care and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Care Hospice, 5041 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola, FL, 32504.

Mom, as you set forth on your greatest journey, give Dad a hug. We love you!