Vernon Ray Aldridge, 86, of Waco, passed away Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at the Veterans Hospital in Temple. Services will be 10 am Saturday, May 5, at Bellmead Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Lester Adams officiating. Burial will be at Waco Memorial Park. Visitation will be 6 to 8 pm Friday, May 4, at the Funeral Home. Mr. Aldridge was born on a farm near O'Donnell, Texas on June 27, 1925 to Will and Martha (Harris) Aldridge. He served with the Marines, in the South Pacific, during WWII and married Mary Joyce Tolson, December 21, 1962, in Chisholm, Texas. As an educator retired from La Vega ISD, he enjoyed reminiscing with former co-workers and students. Mr. Aldridge was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings. Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Mary Joyce; daughters, Becky and Beth; grandsons, Kyle and Nathan all of Waco; sister, Sylvia Waters; and friend and brother-in-law, Leroy Barrier, both of Kerrville; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Aldridge's last year was spent in comfort with the wonderful and loving staff at VA Hospice, 5J, Heroes Haven. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to, the H.O.T. Young Marines, 1301 Ross Ave., Waco, TX 76706.