Theda Ritter
It is with heartfelt sorrow and sadness that we mourn the loss of Theda Maxine Ritter. She was the baby daughter, born June 3, 1952 to the late Garnett M. Ritter, Sr. and Margaret H. Ritter. Also preceding her in death was her brother, G. Milton Ritter, Jr. and the love of her life, her “baby boy” – Rascal.
Theda loved and faithfully worshipped at the Church of God until physically she was unable to do so. She wanted desperately to see the new Church, but her health prevented her from achieving her desire.
Throughout most of her life, she struggled with a disease she often conquered with the strong encouragement of her Daddy. Although misunderstood by many, she faced challenges alone during most of her life with Asperger’s Syndrome, which was not diagnosed until late in her life. She loved people, especially children and the elderly and, in turn, they gave her love because they accepted her as she was, for they could not see her disability. They were drawn to her kind and loving spirit and didn’t see her as being “different.” Her lifelong battle with Asperger Disorder never diminished her love for others. She broke her own barriers and created high bars. She was a sweet, kind, loving and gentle person who was loved by anyone who would try to know her. Theda was a friend to all who would accept her. Her family and friends were her passion and delight. She had a natural and selfless way of loving others. Her sister often said, “Theda has a heart of gold and would give you her last dime, knowing she couldn’t eat tomorrow.” She was a “once in a lifetime - never be another one like her” individual. She has now been reunited with those she loved and those who loved her, including her “baby boy” Rascal. We can only imagine how her face will light up and the smile on her face when she sees them again!
We often said her middle name was “Go” as she loved to travel, especially to Myrtle Beach. Her passion was her genealogy and she was known for her unconditional love for animals.
Her smile and big heart left us too soon but we will forever remember her warmth, love and generosity. Precious memories will forever be in the hearts of her sister, Margaret Ann and brother-in-law, David Woods. Also left to cherish memories is her nephew, Jamie Ritter, his wife, Genevieve, and their children, Cade and Eve. She is also survived by her niece, Ashley Ritter, and her nephew, Jason Ritter, his wife, Amanda, and their children, Hayley, Andon, and Daxton.
We will greatly miss her smile and gentle spirit but we know she’ll be met in heaven by those she’s loved along the way and what a reunion it will be. Once again, she’ll be able to snuggle with “Rascal.” We pray your journey is filled with a fraction of the love you’ve shared with us. Although our hearts are broken and we are left feeling very lonely, we are incredibly grateful knowing your suffering is over, knowing you know what it’s like to be genuinely unbound without disease, pain, or treatment. No longer will you cry in pain, looking to the sky, saying “Lord please take me home” and “Daddy & Mama, please come get me.” God has heard you, taken you home, and Daddy & Mama are embracing their “baby girl” once again.
And until we meet again, may you soar with angels and feel the peace and love of God that you so richly deserve. Your warm and loving aura will surround us for eternity and we take great comfort in knowing that God is getting such a breathtaking Angel.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Knotresha Stewart, Dr. Feras Ghosheh and Dr. Peter Recupero for their compassionate care of Theda over the last several years.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 5, 2022 at 2:00 p.m., at Pulaski Church of God with Pastor Donald Jones and Pastor Shawn Burchett officiating. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jamie Ritter, Jason Ritter, Mark Richardson, Matt Stevens, Skip Stevens, and Dan Corder. The family will receive friends on Wednesday at the Church from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Flowers are appreciated, but it was Theda’s request anyone wishing to honor her memory do so by donating to a No Kill Animal Shelter or the Church of your choice.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.seaglefuneralhome.com Arrangements by Seagle Funeral Home, Pulaski. 540-980-1700
