Terry Lee Ridgley

Terry Ridgley was born in 1948 to Harold “Spike” and Neuma Ridgley. On July 10th 2025, Terry took one final “dive,” leaving behind a legacy of a life well lived.

A lifelong resident of Massillon, Ohio, Terry, affectionately known as “TR,” made a lasting impact both in and out of the pool. In junior high school, Terry participated in several sports but found his passion in diving. As part of the Massillon Tiger Sharks Swim Team, he was a three-year letterman and qualified for the Ohio State meet several times. He was one of the first two divers to be awarded the Ron Gadd Memorial award given to exceptional divers.

Terry’s coaching career began at the Massillon YMCA in 1974 and for over 20 years became a sought after Legendary high school diving coach. During his career he coached hundreds of high school divers at Perry, Glen Oak, Jackson, and Massillon Washington High Schools. Many of Terry’s divers went on to compete at the collegiate level including the University of Tennessee, Ohio State University, University of Michigan, Cleveland State University, Edinboro University, Iowa State University, University of South Carolina, UCLA, Western Kentucky University, Eastern Kentucky University, University of Cincinnati, and the University of Tampa to name a few.

Terry’s contributions to diving were honored with his induction into the Ohio High School Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame in Columbus in 2003 and the Stark County Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame in 2011.

Terry was more than a celebrated coach, he was a friend, a mentor, and a surrogate big brother/father figure to many of his divers. He made a lasting impression with his unwavering support, generous spirit and quick wit. One former diver recalled wrecking Terry’s station wagon after borrowing it for prom. When he returned it with a noticeable dent, Terry simply shrugged and said, “No big deal, yesterday was a bad day for me anyhow.“ Years later, Terry stood by that same diver as the best man at his wedding.

Above all, Terry was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 54 years, Jane (Gesen) Ridgley, with whom he built a life full of love and laughter. His legacy lives on through his two daughters Missy (Jeff) Hodge and Mindy (Chad) Pritchard, and four grandchildren Jacob Hodge, Molly Hodge, Brent Pritchard, and Brayden Pritchard. He is also survived by his brother Tim (Kathy) Ridgley, along with many nieces and nephews and lifelong friends, including special friends Ron and Laura Graves.

Terry was endlessly proud of his daughters and grandchildren, cheering them on every step of the way. At a sport or school event, he was always there, beaming with pride. Whether coaching from the sidelines or delivering a heartfelt pep talk, Terry was fully present in the lives of those he loved. His humor, storytelling - especially about family, hunting and swimming/diving - and his deep love for his family and community are memories that will be cherished forever. His presence will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at the Massillon Washington High School pool lobby located at 207 Oak Street SE Massillon, OH 44646 from 2:00pm - 5:00pm.