Obituary of William L. Riddick

William L. Riddick, 83, of Corning, NY, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at Corning Hospital. He was born in New York City on February 8, 1937, the son of John and Aida Hicks. Following high school, he enlisted in the US Navy serving until 1975 where he attained the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. During his career in the Navy, he traveled the world including time in China and Japan. William, who was also known as “Dick” by many, was a highly spirited family man filled with personality, passion, love and a great sense of humor. He loved to talk to any and everyone about any and everything. His friendliness was contagious and he had the ability to make others laugh and smile when in his company. After leaving the Navy, Dick studied drafting and music at Elmira College and Corning Community College. He was very passionate about music. Dick enjoyed teaching music. He gave music lessons at Marich Music on Market Street. He played several musical instruments including the piano and bongos. When living at Daysprings Apartments in Corning, he would host karaoke sessions for the apartment complex which many of other residents thoroughly enjoyed. At one time, Dick was part of a band which would play at various establishments on Market Street. Dick loved to cook and was a very skilled cook and would share his dishes with his neighbors, family and friends. He enjoyed gardening and took great pride in the size and quality of the plants that he grew. A very skilled chess player, Dick taught many others the complexities of the game. Dick has 5 children whom he loved dearly, Kevin Riddick, Yvonne Williams, Avery Ashley, Melody Riddick and his daughter Theresa Riddick who preceded him in death. Also surviving are grandchildren, Avery Ashley Jr., Kalani Ashley, AmariWandell, Jamel Riddick, Valerie Williams, NeriyahIsreal, Derek Williams and Theresa Williams. There are 8 great grandchildren along with nephews, Darryl Riddick, Andre Green and Anthony Walls and nieces, Toni Walls and Elizabeth Walls. Besides his daughter Theresa, Dick was predeceased by his wife, Carole Riddick and his sisters, Karen Hicks and Muriel Riddick. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, March 19 at 11 am at Bath National Cemetery, Bath, NY.