Harriette Cecilia “Peaches” Riddick peacefully transitioned into the loving arms of her Savior on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of the late Harry C. Eley, Sr., and Beulah Taylor Parson (Thaddeus Alvin Parson, Sr.).
Peaches grew up in Portsmouth, Virginia, where she spent her early years in the Douglas Park community before moving to Mount Hermon. Her spiritual journey began at Celestial Baptist Church in Portsmouth, VA. There, she wholeheartedly dedicated her gifts and talents as a member of the Senior Choir, the Educational Club, and the Culinary Ministry. Harriette had a flair for creativity, often writing and directing church plays. She lovingly enlisted friends and family to bring her theatrical visions to life.
A proud member of the Class of 1963 at the historic I.C. Norcom High School, Harriette was active in various extracurricular activities. Her love for music led her to join the school chorus and eventually form the singing group “Friends.” Their harmonies gained local acclaim, leading them to perform at churches and family gatherings.
After graduating, Harriette began her professional journey at Portsmouth General Hospital. She later pursued higher education at Norfolk State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. For 38 years, she was a dedicated and beloved educator within the Norfolk Public School Division, positively impacting countless young lives.
Harriette’s unassuming and genuine nature drew people to her, fostering lifelong friendships. Known for her wisdom, warmth, and sincere love for others, she filled her retirement years with simple joys. She enjoyed watching QVC, online shopping on Amazon, and taking Walmart trips with her dear sister-cousin Karen Bush. She was an avid traveler, and her most cherished journey was her trip to Africa, an experience she loved sharing with friends and family.
Harriette was an active member of numerous organizations, including Phi Delta Kappa Sorority Inc. (Alpha Chi), Lott Carey, The Red Hatters, Portsmouth Retired Education Association, Ever Ready Chapter #154 (Order of Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliation), and the Bible Study Fellowship International in Suffolk, VA.
Above all, Harriette cherished her family. As a proud mother and doting grandmother, she delighted in celebrating the accomplishments of her daughter and granddaughter, who were her greatest joys.
Harriette was preceded in death by her husband Claude Lewis Riddick’s brothers Keith T. Parsons, Thaddeus Parsons (Cheryl), and Thomas Parsons. Her memory will be forever treasured by her daughter, Camye Allen (Harvey); her granddaughter, Trinity M. Allen; her sister, Shirlene Shoffner (William); her brother, Kenneth Parsons; her sister-cousin, Karen Bush (Harold); and a host of loving family members and friends.
Harriette’s legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
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Frances Chavous says
December 20, 2024 at 12:28 pmMissing you already my dear friend. You were like a sister to me. Rest in Heaven… Condolences to the families
Cynthia Taylor-White says
December 21, 2024 at 11:45 amRest in Heaven my friend, condolences to the family.
Deborah Allen Reid says
December 21, 2024 at 10:51 pmWill miss Peaches beautiful positive spirit.
Rest in peace, my friend
mary harrell says
December 22, 2024 at 11:26 pmI am sending my condolence to the family. She will really be missed by everyone in the building. She was a sweet lady. Would do anything for anybody I will definitely miss her.
mary harrell says
December 22, 2024 at 11:24 pmI am sending my condolence to the family. She will really be missed by everyone in the building. She was a sweet lady. Would do anything for anybody I will definitely miss her.
Pamela Blanco says
December 23, 2024 at 6:53 pmGod has called home a beautiful angel. Peaches your job here on earth is complete, Well done thy good and faithful servant. You were among the kindest cousin, woman of God and the best Yock order coordinator (LOL). Our family will truly miss your sweet spirit and Love.
RIP my dear cousin.
Pamela Boone Gary – Blanco
Doreatha White says
December 24, 2024 at 9:42 amI was deeply saddened to hear of Harriette’s passing. She was more than just a colleague, she was a mentor and a dear friend. Harriette’s kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor made such a positive impact on everyone around her, and I will always treasure the laughter and joy she brought to our time at Willard Model School. She touched so many lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Harriette will be greatly missed.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Doreatha White & Family
Reginald & Dr. Patricia Williams & Family says
December 28, 2024 at 6:10 pmWe offer offer our most sincere condolences to the family of Ms. Harriette Riddick. Our prayer is that God will bless you with His divine comfort as you remember the love and legacy of your mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She is resting in the arms of the Lord, rejoicing, and glorifying our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Carolista & Clarence says
December 29, 2024 at 1:07 pmMiss Harriet, you slipped away and I will miss you and that beautiful smile. To the family God be with you and hold on to all those precious memories
Dr. Joseph Knight says
December 30, 2024 at 12:53 amMy prayers and condolences are extended to the family. May you find comfort in knowing that Harriette (Peaches) is now living eternally with all of her deceased family members, love ones, and friends. For, ” To die is to live “. Dr. Dr. J. Leon Knight
Renee Oliver says
December 30, 2024 at 9:24 amRest in Paradise Queen job well done love you always
D.G.Choate says
December 30, 2024 at 11:05 amSince condolences to the family..
Joyce Norfleet Foster says
December 30, 2024 at 1:22 pmSending love and prayers to the family