Maria Riddle Autry

Maria (Ann) Riddle Autry, age 54, passed away on January 1, 2026. She was born on August 31, 1971, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to Joseph Max Riddle, Sr. and Maria V. Riddle. Maria was married to Jesse Le Verne Autry for 34 years.

She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Max Riddle, Sr., and her brother, Tony Riddle.

Maria was a devoted wife and loving mother whose family was the center of her life. A born-again Christian, she was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. She was well known among family and friends for her lasagna and generous spirit.

Maria was a graduate of Terry Sanford High School and Fayetteville State University, both in Fayetteville, North Carolina. She served as a teacher in Cumberland County Schools for 26 years. She was respected as a no-nonsense educator who deeply cared for her students and encouraged them to become the best versions of themselves. As a Key Club advisor, she led students in numerous charitable and community service activities.

She is survived by her husband, Jesse Le Verne Autry; her children, Jesse D. Autry and fiancée, Katherine Johnson, Rachel A. Cromer and husband, Casey Cromer; and her mother, Maria V. Riddle; and brothers Max Riddle, Jr. and Jimmy Riddle.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, from 12:00 noon until 1:30 p.m. at RockFish Church, 9949 Fayetteville Road, Raeford, NC 28376. Funeral services will follow immediately at RockFish Church, with Pastor Tony McVickers officiating.

Graveside services will be held afterward at Lafayette Memorial Park, 2301 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301.