Barbara Ridder Deck

Barbara Ridder Deck, born on October 29, 1936, in Lansing, Illinois, passed away with her daughters by her side on January 14, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. She was the youngest of five children born to Menno and Johanna Ridder.

Barbara had a lifelong passion for music and majored in organ performance while attending William Jennings Bryan College. There she met and married Larry Ross, the father of her daughters. Her musical talents were a source of joy and inspiration, and she often shared them by serving in the churches she attended throughout her life.

Barbara dedicated over 30 years to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher in Michigan and Florida before retiring. Her career reflected her deep commitment to education and her love for children.

Beyond her professional life, Barbara found immense joy in spending time with her family. She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters and their families: Linda (Marty) Meznar, and Sandy (John) Pierce. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren—Emily (Joel) McLean, Philip (Natalie)Meznar, Michael (Emily Benefield) Meznar, Drew (Mayra Alvarez) Pierce, Carlee Pierce, and Catherine Pierce—and cherished her six great-grandchildren: Emerson McLean; Matthew, Mason, and Jacob Meznar; and Andres and Adrian Pierce and is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husbands Carlton Robinson in 1984 and Paul Deck in 2010.

Barbara’s life was marked by her faith, love of music, dedication to teaching, and devotion to her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Her family is so grateful for the loving care she received by the staff at House of Peace during the last months of her life. May her legacy bring comfort to all who were touched by her kindness and grace.

A small private family memorial will be held at a future date. In remembrance of Barbara Deck’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to The Barnabas Center in Charlotte, North Carolina at https://donate.givedirect.org/migrate/?cid=14245