Benny Doyle Barridge, age 82, of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025.

He was born on Sunday, July 19, 1942, in Winnfield, Louisiana, to the late Maggie Dell Carpenter Barridge and William Edward Barridge. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Janice Howell.

A proud graduate of Calvin High School, Benny earned the distinction of salutatorian for the Class of 1960. He went on to receive both his bachelor's and master's degrees in microbiology from Northwestern State University, and later achieved his Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Nebraska.

Benny dedicated his life to education and the sciences. He began his teaching career at McNeese State University, where he taught for six years before returning to Northwestern State University for another fifteen years of instruction. Between teaching roles, he worked alongside his beloved wife Judy at Delta Biological in Bastrop, Louisiana. He concluded his career with another fifteen years of service at North Arkansas College in Harrison, Arkansas, where he impacted the lives of countless students.

In retirement, Benny found joy in the quiet moments—sitting on the back porch with Judy, watching wildlife, and sharing stories. He had a soft spot for his dog, Socks, and an even greater love for his grandchildren, Rowan and Auren, who were the light of his life.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Judy Knudson Barridge; his son, Justin Barridge and wife Nora; his grandchildren, Rowan and Auren; and his sister, Glenda Corbitt.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield, from 12:00 p.m. until time of service.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in the chapel of Southern Funeral Home, with Bro. Jason Corbitt, Steve Bartlett, and Leroy James officiating. Interment will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Calvin, Louisiana.

Pallbearers will be Michael Corbitt, Jason Corbitt, Colby Lasyone, Roy James, Jr., and David Hailey. His grandsons, Rowan and Auren Barridge, will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.southernfuneralhome.com.