Leo Mark Ridge III

Leo “Mark” Ridge III, a resilient, hardworking man who dedicated his life to providing for those he loved; passed away peacefully at 9:10 AM on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, in Denham Springs, Louisiana. He was 76 years old.

Born on January 29th, 1950, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Mark was the son of the late Ada Tingstrom and Leo Mark Ridge II. From a very young age, Mark stepped up to work and help provide for his family, developing a profound work ethic that would define his entire life. He later carried that same unwavering dedication into fatherhood, working long, grueling hours to ensure his family had a stable, good life.

Perhaps Mark’s greatest victory and proudest achievement, however, was his journey of recovery. An alcoholic who chose a path of healing, Mark achieved an inspiring 27 years of continuous sobriety. He turned his personal triumph into a lifeline for others, dedicating decades to guiding, mentoring, and helping countless individuals reach and maintain their own sobriety. His quiet strength changed the trajectory of many lives.

After a lifetime of hard work and service to others, Mark enjoyed a well-deserved retirement. In his free time, he found true peace and happiness in life's simple pleasures—he loved nothing more than casting a line while fishing and losing himself in his favorite music. To his peers, he was Mark. But to his beloved grandchildren, he wore his favorite title proudly: "Poppy."

Mark is survived by his loving son, Steven M. Ridge (Christen); his sister, Eileen Mitchell; and his former wife and friend, Donna Lynn Ridge. His legacy of resilience lives on through his three cherished grandchildren, Reed Christopher Leblanc, Joshua Matthew Ridge, and Gabriella Faith Ridge, as well as his precious great-grandchild, Adan LeBlanc.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Michael Ridge.

Mark’s life was a testament to quiet strength, sacrifice, and the power of redemption. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will endure in the hearts of his family and the community he helped heal.

For the last two years of his life, Mark lived with his son, Steven, and daughter-in-law, Christen, who provided him with kind, thoughtful care in their home. When he passed away, Christen was at his side, holding his hand with the same quiet selflessness and empathy she showed him every day.

We would like to thank Pinnacle Hospice for their much appreciated guidance and support throughout Mark’s care