Kenneth "Kenny" Ridgely

"Kenneth “Kenny” Ridgely, born on September 27th, 1964, to Donald Ridgely Sr. and Shirley Ridgely, passed away on December 22nd, 2024, at Frederick Health Hospital, with his eldest son by his side. Diagnosed with glioblastoma in April 2024, Kenny fought bravely throughout the nine months from diagnosis to his untimely death. A dedicated firefighter, Kenny served with the Howard County Fire Department for over 20 years, primarily at Station 7, where he earned numerous accolades for his life-saving work in respiratory failure and cardiac arrest emergencies. Though his career was cut short by a back injury, Kenny remained passionate about his profession and had aspired to reach 30 years of service. In addition to his firefighting career, Kenny co-founded and managed a successful lawn care business alongside his brother, Donald Jr. Balancing both careers, he exemplified a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, always striving to do things right the first time. Kenny was a loving and attentive grandfather who took pride in nurturing and encouraging his grandchildren. An avid beachgoer, he found joy in family vacations to Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. He was fascinated by lighthouses and spent countless hours on the Chesapeake Bay fishing and crabbing with friends and family. His love for the water extended to a lifetime of boating adventures. Kenny’s sense of humor and thrill for life shone through in his appreciation of comedies like South Park and Beavis and Butt-Head. A self-proclaimed ’80s rocker, he enjoyed music from iconic bands such as Def Leppard, AC/DC, and Mötley Crüe. Kenny is survived by his father, Donald Ridgely Sr.; his brother, Donald Ridgely Jr.; his two sons, Bryan Ridgely and Ben Ridgely; his daughter-in-law, Karrie Ridgely; and his cherished grandchildren, Madison and Conner Ridgely. He was preceded in death by his mother Shirley Ridgely and daughter in law Lillie Ridgely. Kenny will be remembered as a committed public servant and a man of unwavering discipline. Stubborn and often hot headed, but he would get the job done right and laugh with you afterwards. A Memorial Service and Celebration of life will be held at 12pm on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Sykesville Fire Department's Legacy Hall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to International Associations of Firefighters or The Handicapped Pets Foundation." Online condolences may be offered at www.haightfuneralhome.com

Kenneth "Kenny" Ridgely

September 27, 1964 - December 22, 2024