Christine Ridley Rollins

Christine “Chris” Ridley Rollins, 71, a bright and loving child of God, died on Saturday, September 9, 2023. She was born on September 22, 1951 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Lynford and Dorothy Ridley. Chris attended Baldwin High School in Pittsburgh, PA. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Waynesburg University and her Master’s of Education from Duquesne University. Chris was an educator for over 30 years and worked in the parochial, public, and private schools in Pittsburgh, PA; Winter Haven, FL; Dundee, FL; and Baton Rouge, LA. Chris was ‘Teacher of the Year’ of Polk County in 1997 and ‘Teacher of the Year’ of East Baton Rouge Parish in 2005. Chris was a National Board Certified Teacher and mentored teachers seeking certification. She retired from teaching in 2015 and relocated to Niceville, FL to be near her daughter and grandson. Chris treasured education and was a dedicated volunteer at Plew Elementary, working with the Plew Leadership Association. She spent her days mentoring children, tutoring, reading, and tending to an adopted school garden. Chris volunteered weekly at Sharing and Caring as Pantry Director in Niceville, FL. Chris loved to encourage others and gave of her time as a Mentor Mom to young mothers at Mothers Of Preschool children (MOPS) at Crosspoint Church in Niceville, FL. Chris was an accomplished vocalist and was an active member in the Sugar Beach Acapella Choir and the White Sands Acapella Choir. Chris was a musician at heart, whether it be playing the acoustic guitar or singing in every church that she has held membership. Chris was an active member of First Presbyterian Church and was an elder where she joyfully served for many years. Chris is preceded in death by her parents, Lynford and Dorothy Ridley, and her sister Georgianne Burnett. She is survived in death by her husband of 47 years, James Rollins and her two daughters Amanda Rollins Dobler and Abby Rollins, and her grandson, Noah Dobler. The memorial service will be held Saturday, September 23rd at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Walton Beach at 134 Beal Pkwy. SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to continue her legacy in the local community.