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HERTFORD – Joseph Earl Riddick, 76, of 167 Riverside Drive, Hertford, NC, died Friday, February 16, 2024, in his home where he was cared for by his family.

Mr. Riddick was born in Perquimans County on May 28, 1947, and was the son of Dorothy Dail Riddick of Hertford and the late Earl J. Riddick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife’s parents, Eugene and Geneva Mustian, longtime residents of Ahoskie, and by his brother-in-law, Larry Mustian.

Employed with what is now known as Dominion Energy for 30 years, he started with the company when it was known as VEPCO, and had worked his way through the ranks as a lineman, foreman, and retired as a Director. Many will remember his other life’s work as the owner of Riddick’s Marine Construction, a passion he retired from in June of 2022 when his health made it too difficult for him to continue to work.

A graduate of Perquimans County High School, he had served in the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam War Era.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife of nearly 33 years, Debra Mustian Riddick; a sister, Gloria R. Hansen of Altoona, PA; a brother, Donald Riddick (wife, Connie) of Hertford; sisters-in-law, Marsha Beasley of Jackson and Michelle Boyd (husband, Johnny) of Cofield; nieces and nephews, Dee Winslow, Natalie Woodard, Brian Beasley, John Boyd, and Ryan Mustian; and several great-nieces, great-nephews, and other extended family members and friends.

A graveside service will be held Monday, February 19th, at 2:00 p.m. in Highland Memorial Gardens, Ahoskie, and will be conducted by the Rev. James Spaugh and longtime friend, Joe Holloman. Friends may visit with the family Sunday from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, or all other times at the residence.

Flowers are welcome, or contributions in his memory may be made to Albemarle Hospice, 1507 North Road Street, Suite 2, Elizabeth City, NC 27909.