A celebration for Paris

Paris Ridley often made his fourth period teacher chuckle - of course, the teacher couldn't always show it because his antics would sometimes disrupt class. Paris had his routine in the art class, he would try very hard to contain himself during a short "how-to" presentation, then he would circle the class as everyone began to work on their projects. He would say hello to his buddies - pointing out all their flaws in their projects as a sign of affection - and then give his report on who had their cell phone out.

That teacher was me. And that was, indeed, very funny when he tattled on others - especially since it would be no surprise when he would have to follow my pointed finger out the door for a little time out from class. He took his mild punishments quietly and would come back to class and get to work (well... most of the time).

Paris, a typical high school senior, was really looking forward to graduation. On Saturday, April 5, he emailed some photos of himself to his auntie who lives in Connecticut. This was unusual, she told us yesterday, Paris had never sent her pictures before. Perhaps he just wanted to share his excitement and anticipation of the upcoming June celebration with his extended family. Perhaps it was for another reason.

Paris died later that night as a passenger in an automobile accident at the Arena Boulevard exit from I-5 in Natomas.

His celebration came earlier than expected as his family, friends, teachers and congregation members assembled yesterday at the New Testament Baptist Church in North Highlands. The full house was truly a celebration of Paris' life - he touched many of us and we will miss him.