Douglas Edward Riddle
Douglas Edward Riddle, affectionately known as “Doug,” passed away on September 7, 2026. Doug was born on May 15, 1944, in Martinsville, Virginia, to Clarence Edward “Dude” Riddle and Julia Finney
Riddle, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Angeline Riddle Oakley.
Doug was a lifelong resident of Martinsville and a man who learned the value of hard work at an early age. He later joined his father, Clarence Edward “Dude” Riddle, in the family automobile business. Together, they built and operated Riddle Oldsmobile, Cadillac and Honda. Doug was proud of the business he helped build with his father and of the many friendships and relationships he developed throughout his years in the automobile business.
After retiring from the car business, Doug never lost his love of automobiles—or his love of trading cars and making a deal. He enjoyed talking cars, finding a good deal, and negotiating a trade just as much in
retirement as he had throughout his career.
While Doug was a successful businessman, his greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lewis
Stone Riddle. Together, they built a life centered around their family and created a lifetime of memories.
Doug is survived by his wife, Lewis; his daughters, Julia Riddle Elks and Elizabeth Riddle DeVault (Joseph Anthony DeVault); his grandsons, Douglas Edward Elks, Reed Stone Elks, and Andrew Gates DeVault; his sister, Dorothy Riddle Hundley; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Doug had a particularly special relationship with his grandsons. He was much more than a grandfather to them—he was a father figure, mentor, and steady presence in their lives. He loved them deeply and took
great pride in them, and the influence he had on their lives will remain with them forever.
Doug had a special love for animals, especially his beloved dog, Max. The two were rarely apart and went everywhere together. Max was not simply a pet—he was Doug’s constant companion and an important part
of his life. Their bond was a reflection of the loyalty and love Doug gave so freely.
Doug loved golf and especially enjoyed playing with his friends at Chatmoss Country Club. He also treasured the many golf trips he took with his buddies to Myrtle Beach, where good golf, good friends, and
good times made lasting memories.
Doug had a lifelong love for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and the freedom of the open road. He enjoyed riding coast to coast with his close group of friends, affectionately known as “the Buds.” Those rides and the friendships he shared along the way were some of the adventures he treasured most.
Doug was also a devoted NASCAR fan and loved spending time with his friends tailgating, especially at the Martinsville race track. He enjoyed the excitement of the races, but just as much, he enjoyed the fellowship, laughter, and traditions that surrounded them.
Doug was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Martinsville and proudly served in the National Guard. His faith, family, friendships, work, and community were important parts of the life he lived.
Doug will be remembered for his strong work ethic, loyalty, kindness, love of family, and his ability to enjoy life with the people he loved. Whether he was on the golf course, riding his Harley with “the Buds,” watching NASCAR with friends, traveling to Myrtle Beach, talking cars and making a deal, or simply spending time with his family and beloved Max, Doug knew how to make memories.
But perhaps his greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind—the wife he loved for 58 years, his daughters, his grandsons whom he helped guide and support, his sister, nieces and nephews, and the many
friends whose lives he touched.
Doug will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by those who were blessed to know and love him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 12:00 pm Saturday, September 12, 2026, at First United Methodist Church of Martinsville and will be officiated by Reverend Faith Weedling. A reception at Chatmoss Country Club will follow the service. A private burial will take place in Oakwood Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Doug’s memory to the Martinsville-Henry County SPCA or to First United Methodist Church of Martinsville Food Bank.
McKee-Stone Funeral Home, Martinsville, Va. is serving the family. To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonemartinsville.com


