James Dean Ridinger, known to his friends as Buffalo, left his earthly pain behind to soar with the Angels on Thursday, October 21, 2021.

Jim was born December 9, 1951, to Vaughn Floyd Ridinger and Ailene Rose Mitchell Ridinger.  He graduated Parkview High School in 1969.  Jim was wise in business and a great leader.  He spent the majority of his career with Pizza Inn Restaurants in Springfield where he retired as owner.  Throughout his life, Jim was active in the local pool circuit in Springfield, playing in and winning many tournaments.  We are learning he is kind of a legend amongst his peers.  Of all of his accomplishments, however, his greatest were his two children, his daughter Chandler and son Jacob.  Time spent with family and his grandchildren, including family trips to the Lake House in Oklahoma and Saturday afternoons at the family pool, were some of his favorite times.

Jim was preceded in death by his father and mother; a stepsister, Joyce Chastain and a stepbrother, Steve Cundy. He is survived by his Bonus Mom, Wilima Ridinger (Ozark); sister, Francine Morris and husband Ed (Owasso, OK); stepsister, Debra Cundy Glidewell (Republic); daughter, Chandler Johnston and husband Kevin (Nixa); son, Jacob Ridinger and wife Ally (Springfield); 2 grandsons, Jackson Dale and Garrett James Johnston (Nixa); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that were like family.

Jim was a gentle soul that touched all those who knew him.  He was an amazing father and a loving son and brother.  He will never be forgotten and will always be missed.

Visitation will be Thursday, October 28, 202,1 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 PM in the funeral home. Celebration of Life will follow at Rocco's Pizza, Nixa, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Play It Forward SWMO, 1600 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO 65804.