Betty Jo "BJ" Riddle McInnis

Phillipians 2:3 - “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

Betty Jo (BJ) Riddle McInnis peacefully passed away at her home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on January 15, 2026. She was a cherished mother, daughter, wife, sister, aunt and friend. BJ embodied the very essence of thoughtfulness, kindness, and compassion, leaving behind a profound legacy of generosity and love toward others.

She was preceded in death by her father, Charles Addison Riddle, Jr., and her mother, Rita Gremillion Riddle. BJ is survived by her devoted husband, Adrian Kell McInnis III; her son, John Taylor Bennett, Jr. (Ginger); her beloved grandchildren, John Taylor Bennett III and Grace Addison Bennett; her sisters, Mary Ann Riddle (Sedric Banks), Janet Riddle, and Kathy Catanzaro (Mike); her brothers, Charles A. Riddle III (Jamie) and Robert Stuart Riddle (Lisa). Additionally, BJ was deeply loved by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends, all of whom she held dear.

BJ was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Kell, and a proud caring mother to her son, Taylor. Her love for her two grandchildren knew no bounds, and they brought her immeasurable joy. Above all, BJ’s family and friends were her greatest happiness. She was a constant source of support, encouragement, and warmth, always prioritizing the needs of others over her own.

Born in Marksville, Louisiana on April 7, 1947, she graduated from Marksville High School in 1965. Following her high school years, she spent a year at Centenary College in Shreveport before earning her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge in 1969.

In the early years of her career, BJ worked for Ethyl Corporation before transitioning to the East Baton Rouge City Parish government. For 30 years, she devoted herself to public service as an Administrative Assistant, supporting several District Attorneys and Judges in the 19th Judicial District Court until her retirement. Throughout her career, BJ touched the lives of countless citizens with her compassionate demeanor, and she became well-known among her colleagues for her warmth, friendly nature, and her infectious smile that brightened every room.

BJ was a very active gardener and faithfully attended Mass at various churches throughout the Baton Rouge area. She was also involved in the Modern Reviewers Book Club for many years, where she served as an officer.

In addition to her love for gardening, BJ was dedicated to staying healthy. She practiced Yoga and Pilates for many years. Her passion for fitness extended to walking, swimming, and working out at the Baton Rouge Country Club, where she and her husband, Kell, remained active members throughout their marriage. BJ and Kell were also avid travelers, exploring Europe several times and embarking on hunting trips to Canada, Mexico, and various destinations across the United States.

Generous and warm-hearted, BJ had a true gift for entertaining. She loved hosting events in their home, and her hospitality knew no bounds—she was the ultimate hostess! Together with Kell, they were devoted participants in their supper club. They enjoyed working as a team to plan and prepare gourmet meals paired with wines for their circle of friends.

BJ was an extraordinary woman whose kindness left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she encountered. She lived with purpose and an unwavering dedication to serving others. Her passing creates a profound emptiness in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. BJ's warmth and generosity radiated through every interaction, and she possessed a gift of making others feel truly valued and loved. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of compassion and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

The family would like to thank her care takers–Cheryl Collier, Mandi Jo Smith, Patricia Day, Tia Simms, and Monique Knighten, along with her nurse, Debbie Sparacello and her team from Hospice of Baton Rouge.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 10:30am, followed by a Funeral Mass beginning at 12:30pm, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Honoring BJ as pallbearers are her son Taylor Bennett, John Taylor Bennett III, Charles Riddle, and Robert Stuart Riddle. Honorary pallbearers are Lou Daniel, John Barton, Dwight Singer, Henry “Chick” Miller, and Mac Bullock.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of Baton Rouge or the charity of your choice.