Ray Edward Ritchie

Ray Edward Ritchie, 85 of China Grove, N.C. went to be with the Lord on Wednesday September 18, 2024 following a period of declining health.

Ray was born October 25, 1938 in Rowan County, N.C. a son of the late Lewis Edward Ritchie and Gladys Deal Rtchie. He was also preceded in death by two brothers Jimmie and Charles Ritchie. 

Ray was a lifelong member of Concordia Lutheran Church in China Grove where he sang in the church choir, was a member of Donald Schenk Sunday School Class, was a former Sunday School teacher and had served on the church council. 

Ray was a veteran of the US Army, serving during the Vietnam Era and was a proud member of the US Army Band. 

Ray had previously owned and operated Ritchie Brothers Family Farm and was a farmer all of his life. He later was a Real Estate developer. 

Loving family members left to cherish his memory include his wife of 61 years; Kay Brown Ritchie of the home, two sons Jeff Ritchie and wife Jennifer of China Grove and their children, Jeb Jack and Juliana. Son, Greg Ritchie and partner Chrissy Crowell of China Grove and Greg’s children, Logan Durant and husband Chris of Kannapolis and Fallon Markham and husband Koby of Denton. Also survived by one great grandchild Laighton. He is also survived by a brother Robert Ritchie and wife Dyann of China Grove, and sisters-in law Judy Ritchie of China Grove and Joan Ritchie of Mississippi. 

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 P.M. Sunday, September 22, 2024 at Concordia Lutheran Church, 185 Concordia Church Rd, China Grove conducted by the Rev.’s George Rhyne and Carl Haynes. The family will receive friends in the family life center 2:30 P.M.-4:00m P.M. prior to the service. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. 

The family request that in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Concordia Lutheran Church, Music Fund,185 Concordia Church Road, China Grove, N.C. 28023.

Whitley’s Funeral Home is serving the family of Mr. Ritchie. Online condolences may be sent to www.whitleysfuneralhome.com