James William Rider, 86, died on July 17, 2025, at Azria Health Longview Home in Missouri Valley. He was born on Aug. 28, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio to Percy and Dorothy (West) Rider. After graduation, he went on to attend Parsons College in Fairfield, where he received his teaching degree. While attending college, he met Lorita Mether and they were united in marriage on July 31, 1960, at the Magnolia Methodist Church. For 38 remarkable years, he taught in various schools including Missouri Valley, Westwood, Lytton, Logan-Magnolia and Woodbine, where he made a profound impact on the lives of countless students. His passion for education led him to teach special education, 6th grade math and science, as well as elementary physical education and art.
Jim was actively involved in his faith community, initially a member of the Methodist Church, later finding a spiritual home in the Mondamin Baptist church. He was a dedicated Boy Scout Order of the Arrow scout leader, where he inspired youth not only in skills and learning but also in character and integrity. Jim also started the track and field day at Logan, fostering a sense of community and healthy competition among students. In his later years, he became a resident of Longview Nursing Home, where he spent three years. Most of all, Jim will be remembered as a good dad and husband.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents; son, Patrick Rider; brother, Bob Rider; sisters-in-law, Leota Mether and Jane Mether; and brothers-in-law, LeRoy Mether, Donald Mether and Jack Straight. He is survived by his wife, Lorita of Magnolia; three sons, Eric Rider and his wife Theresa of Logan, Dan Rider of Magnolia and Jason Rider and his wife Chris of Bennington, Neb.; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Linda and her husband Frank Polsick of Cleveland; brother, Michael Rider of Cleveland; sister-in-law, Sondra Straight of Logan; and many other relatives and friends.
A funeral service was held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine. Brad Westercamp presided over the service. The musician was Tammi Mether. The congregational hymns were “How Great Thou Art”, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Old Rugged Cross”. The honorary pallbearers were Keagan Rider, Kiernan Rider, Ian Rider, Justin Gochenour, Jared Stewart, Kyle Miller and Jake Rider.
Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
