WILMINGTON — Addie Elizabeth Peterson Pridgen, 94, of Pender County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 27, 1931, in Pender County, Addie was the daughter of the late Blackman and Jennie Louise Baygent Peterson. She graduated from Burgaw High School and in 1948, married the love of her life, the late Harry Pridgen. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on hard work and family.
Addie was a devoted mother to her children, Harry Pridgen Jr. (Diane), Richard Pridgen, Michelle Knighton (Greg Southerland), the late Patricia “Trysh” Midgett (Louis); and son-in-law, Keith Knighton. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren, Lindsey Pridgen, Mallory and Tori Knighton, Chayse and Mikayla Midgett, and Beth and David Pridgen; and a loving great-grandmother to six, Skyler, Ava, Stevie Rose, Charles, Owen, and Camdyn.
A gifted seamstress, Addie spent many years crafting clothes and hand-knitted pieces for her family. Whether she was tending to her vibrant garden or preparing a table full of comforting Southern food, Addie’s hands were always busy creating and caring. Her love of the outdoors and her homegrown vegetables and flowers were matched only by the warmth of her kitchen.
Addie was a God-fearing woman whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was known for her directness—you always knew where you stood with Addie, and it was a trait that those who loved her came to respect and cherish. Her presence was a strong, steady force in her family’s life, and she found her greatest joy simply being surrounded by them.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Pridgen; her daughter, Patricia “Trysh” Midgett; her grandson, Joshua Pridgen; her sister, Helen, and her parents.
Addie leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and family bonds that will be felt for generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the charity of your choice, as Addie was an avid supporter of many charities and causes.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
