Posted on August 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM by Emily Saveraid
Richard and Susan Tidman believe in faith, family, and farming. They carry these values in all that they do. Ringgold County 4-H feels lucky that many youth could experience their kindness, patience, and fairness first-hand. Both were incredibly supportive 4-H parents, and Richard also served as a 4-H sheep superintendent for nineteen years, from 1995 to 2014. A 4-H sheep project alum said it best: "The Tidmans were always willing to lend a helping hand to all members that needed it. Not only the sheep projects members – all 4-H members. They wanted all the youth to learn and to succeed.”
Richard was always at the spring sheep weigh-in to meet the youth and lend a hand. During county fair week, he made countless trips to town to tend to responsibilities. The Tidmans also provided the sheep used for mutton bustin’ the night of the rodeo at the Ringgold County Fair for many years. During this, Susan was either by Richard's side or taking care of things at home after she encouraged Richard to do what needed to be done. She understood the importance of youth getting more out of an experience when a caring adult was present and involved.
Those who know the Tidmans would tell you they are the kindest, hardest-working folks. The kind of people that would give you a shirt off their back and expect nothing in return. Ringgold County 4-H was lucky to have them involved in the program. Youth, volunteers, and extension staff learned from the knowledge they shared and the example they set. Richard and Susan probably do not realize how many lives they touched simply by choosing to be involved in the 4-H program, but Ringgold County certainly does. They appreciate the Tidmans’ support of 4-H – then, now, and always.
