Betty G. Riddle

Betty G. Riddle, 88, of Bonita Springs, FL, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at North Collier Hospital following a brief illness. Born on March 24, 1937, in Georgetown, Illinois, Betty was the daughter of the late Omer “Pat” Patten and Ruth “Dearie” (née Saunders) Patten. She relocated to Southwest Florida in 1978, where she became a beloved and active member of the Bonita Springs community. Betty and her late husband, Thomas Riddle, were longtime, dedicated members of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 96. In a notable achievement, Betty was proud to be the first female commander of any Flotilla nationwide. Betty continued her service to the Coast Guard community, volunteering at the Fort Myers Beach U.S. Coast Guard Station for over 30 years, spending three to four days a week assisting with operations. In recognition of her extraordinary commitment, the station honored her legacy by naming the communication center in her memory. Before her years of volunteerism, Betty lived an adventurous and pioneering life. Between 1955 and 1957, she was one of the very first mermaids at Florida’s famous Weeki Wachee Springs—a role that reflected her grace, strength, and trailblazing spirit. She is survived by her loving family: her daughter, Elizabeth Jean Johnson (Rick); her two sons, Douglas C. Black and Bruce G. Black; and her sister, Caroline A. Hammer. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren—Jason, Kris, Alexa, Dan, Kyle, Karly, and Cara—and nine great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins who will cherish her memory. Betty was preceded in death by her first husband, Ronald Black, who passed in 1977, and her second husband, Thomas Riddle; her parents, Ruth and Omer Patten; her brother, Ronald “Buddy” Patten; and her sister, Arlene Moran. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, 28300 Tamiami Trail South, Bonita Springs, FL. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s name to the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 96 at www.flotilla96.org or by mail to: USCG Auxiliary - Wiggins Pass 13531 Vanderbilt Dr., Naples, FL 34110 (Please include “Flotilla 96” in the memo line) To sign her guest register or leave online condolences, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home – Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Betty G. Riddle

March 24, 1937 - July 12, 2025