Longtime South Dakota Teacher Shirley Ridgway Dies at 87

Ridgway dedicated 45 years to educating elementary students in the Wagner and Ravinia communities.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Shirley Mary Ridgway, a lifelong resident of South Dakota and a beloved elementary school teacher for 45 years, passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2026, at the age of 87. Ridgway taught at Ree Country School and in the Ravinia and Wagner Community Schools, with a particular passion for teaching science to fifth graders.

Why it matters

Ridgway's dedication to education and her community over nearly five decades reflects the important role that teachers play in shaping young minds and the lasting impact they can have. Her passing is mourned by former students, colleagues, and the close-knit communities she served.

The details

Ridgway was born in 1938 in Wagner, South Dakota, and graduated from Ravinia High School in 1956. She and her sister, Deanna, both earned bachelor's degrees in elementary education, graduating from Southern State College in 1969. Ridgway taught at Ree Country School, where her younger brother was among her students, before continuing her career in the Ravinia and Wagner school districts. She retired in 2000 after 45 years of teaching.

  • Shirley Ridgway was born on February 27, 1938 in Wagner, South Dakota.
  • She graduated from Ravinia High School in 1956.
  • Ridgway and her sister Deanna earned their bachelor's degrees in elementary education from Southern State College in August 1969.
  • Ridgway taught for 45 years, retiring in May 2000.
  • Ridgway passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2026 at the age of 87.

The players

Shirley Mary Ridgway

A lifelong resident of South Dakota and a beloved elementary school teacher who dedicated 45 years to educating students in the Wagner and Ravinia communities.

Deanna Ridgway

Shirley's sister, who also attended night school and summer school to earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education alongside Shirley.

Albert Ridgway, Sr.

Shirley's father.

Pearl (Bradley) Ridgway

Shirley's mother.

Edward Ridgway

Shirley's brother.

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The takeaway

Shirley Ridgway's lifelong dedication to education and her community is a testament to the profound impact that teachers can have. Her passing is mourned by those whose lives she touched over her 45-year career, underscoring the vital role that educators play in shaping young minds and building strong communities.