Phebe Mason Abbott Rideout, a cherished pillar of the Marysville community, passed away peacefully at Stanford Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, just two weeks after celebrating her 91st birthday. Her long and impactful life was marked by resilience, leadership, and a relentless devotion to community progress and empowerment. With her passing, Marysville bids farewell to not just a beloved citizen, but a historic figure whose legacy will echo through generations.
Born and raised with values rooted in service, Phebe developed a deep appreciation for civic responsibility and community building early in life. Her journey was one of extraordinary accomplishments, most notably becoming the first woman bank president in the state of California—a trailblazing milestone that shattered gender norms and inspired countless women to pursue leadership roles in business and finance. Her tenure as bank president was marked by innovation, integrity, and a people-first approach that made banking accessible and personal for the residents of Marysville and beyond.
But Phebe’s impact extended far beyond the walls of the bank. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping local infrastructure projects that strengthened the economic and social fabric of the community. Whether it was advocating for better roads, supporting public works, or ensuring the sustainable development of Marysville’s neighborhoods, she was a tireless force for progress.
One of her most heartfelt commitments was her advocacy for veterans. Having grown up in an era marked by global conflict and having personally known the sacrifice of military families, Phebe devoted considerable time and resources to supporting local veterans’ initiatives. From securing funding for veterans’ housing to organizing annual remembrance events, she was a beacon of support and solidarity for those who served the nation.
Despite her many accolades and public accomplishments, those who knew Phebe best remember her for her personal warmth, boundless energy, and a zest for life that never waned. She was a vibrant spirit—an adventurer at heart—who embraced every chapter of her life with curiosity and courage. Whether hiking in the Sierras, hosting community book clubs, or sharing stories with young entrepreneurs, Phebe remained engaged, inspiring, and forward-looking until her final days.
Phebe Rideout leaves behind a profound legacy: not just in the tangible improvements she made to Marysville, but in the countless lives she touched with her wisdom, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of community. Her life was a testament to what one determined individual can achieve, and her story will continue to inspire civic leaders, women in business, and community advocates for years to come.
As Marysville mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens, it also celebrates a life beautifully lived—full of purpose, service, and fearless ambition. Phebe Mason Abbott Rideout will forever be remembered as a pioneer, a community champion, and a true daughter of California.
