Mickey Ridge Frisby

Mickey "Mike" Ridge Frisby, a dedicated public servant, lifelong explorer, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy marked by service to his country and an unquenchable passion for the world’s diverse cultures and people.

Born in Oklahoma to the late John Thurman "Mickey" Frisby and Francis "Wanda" (Wilhelm) Frisby, Mike learned early the values of service and community. Following his school years, he proudly dedicated three years to the U.S. Coast Guard—a foundational experience that kindled his lifelong love for adventure and global exploration. He later advanced his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from George Washington University, providing a strong foundation for the distinguished career that lay ahead.

His deep curiosity about the world led him into a distinguished, decades-long career with the U.S. Foreign Service. As a diplomat and Commercial Officer, Mike dedicated his life to building international bridges, immersing himself in the language, history, and customs of every community he touched. His career took him and his family across the globe, including early assignments in Milan, Italy and Amsterdam, Netherlands, followed by vital assignments in Jeddah and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; and Hanoi, Vietnam. Following his tour in Vietnam, Mike chose to retire, stepping away from public service to focus fully on the family and the home life he so deeply cherished.

Beyond his distinguished career, Mike was an intellectual at heart who possessed a profound love for learning, reading, and absorbing other cultures. He was a passionate, diehard sports enthusiast and a fierce supporter of University of Oklahoma athletics, most notably OU Football and OU Softball. Just like his late brother Don, Mike’s enthusiasm for the Sooners was a central pillar of his life, and he spent countless seasons passionately cheering them on.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Thea Frisby; his loving children, son Christiaan Frisby, and daughter Lauren Bediako and her husband, Eric. He is also survived by his three cherished grandchildren, Sabrina Frisby (daughter of Christiaan), and Zayden and Kellen Bediako (sons of Lauren and Eric), who all brought immense happiness to his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Wanda Frisby, and his brother, Don Craig Frisby.

Mike’s warmth, expansive worldview, and dedication to his loved ones will be forever missed by his family, friends, and former colleagues across the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Mike's name to the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) to support the ongoing, global fight for a cure.