James “J.R.” Ross Aldridge II

James Ross (J.R.) Aldridge II, of Crawfordsville, Indiana, passed away on October 29, 2026, at the age of 77.

Born in Lafayette, Indiana, he was the son of the late James and Agnes (Bohan) Aldridge. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1967 before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he continued his education at Purdue University, graduating in 1976. He went on to enjoy a long and dedicated career as a mail handler with the United States Postal Service (USPS).

A lifelong sports enthusiast, he was a devoted and loyal fan of the Purdue Boilermakers, Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and Chicago Cubs. Through the wins, losses, and everything in between, his loyalty to his teams never wavered. His love for sports was a constant throughout his life and something he enjoyed sharing with family and friends.

Above all, he leaves behind a family who will cherish the memories, stories, and moments shared with him throughout the years.

He is survived by his daughter, Tammy (Bill) Middleton, and their children, Precious and Buzz; his son, Jason (Hali) Aldridge, and their son, Everett; his longtime significant other, Loralee Bennett; and his three siblings, Joe (Sue) Cross, Sandy (the late Dave) Forville, and Peg (Bill) Baugh. He is also remembered by Loralee’s three children and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Agnes Aldridge.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his many years of hard work, his lifelong passion for sports, and the special place he held in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation

Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Soller-Baker Funeral Home, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., Lafayette, IN 47909.

Funeral Mass

Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Catholic Church and Shrine, 612 Wabash Ave., Lafayette, IN 47905.

Burial

Burial will follow the Funeral Mass at Rest Haven Memorial Park, 1200 Sagamore Pkwy N, Lafayette, IN 47904.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Lafayette Catholic Schools, 2410 S. 9th St., Lafayette, IN 47909, in memory of J.R. Aldridge.

Website: giving.lcss.org