Mr. Lonnie Clarence Ritchie of LaGrange, GA passed away Monday, May 3, 2021 at the age of 92. The son of the late James Parable Ritchie and Sally Blanche Grimsley Ritchie. He was born October 26, 1928 in Early County, Georgia. At an early age his family moved to Columbia, Alabama where Mr. Ritchie grew up. He was an active member of LaGrange First United Methodist Church since 1967.
Survivors include his loving wife, Bobbie Jean of over 70 years. Mr. Ritchie had two sons, Rex (Jody), Rodney (Gayla), three grandchildren, Eric, Lori and Tyler; six great grandchildren, Jace, Bailey, Isabella, Corra, Sawyer and Jude; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Nora Clarke (Hubert) and Sara (James) Stephens; brothers, Orel (Dorothy), T.R. and Mack (Jewel).
Mr. Ritchie retired in 1987 as Vice President of West Georgia Technical College. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Masters of Arts Degrees from the University of Alabama. He completed Post Graduate work at the University of Georgia.
Mr. Ritchie served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a former member of the LaGrange Lions Club, American Vocational Association, Georgia Vocational Association, Georgia Association of Local Administrators, Iota Lamba-Tau Chapter – Professional Fraternity, Phi Delta Kappa Professional Fraternity, The University of Alabama National Alumni Association.
Funeral Services for Mr. Ritchie will be 1:00pm Friday, May 7, 2021 at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary Chapel with Dr. John Beyers and Rev. Ben Wills officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Shadowlawn Cemetery.
Flowers will be accepted or Memorials to LaGrange First United Methodist Church in memory of Mr. Lonnie Ritchie.
Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com.
Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA
