Linda M. Ritchie

Linda Ritchie, née McCloud, born in 1952 in Glen Ridge, NJ, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on March 28th. She was predeceased by her parents, Ray and Harriet McCloud, and her sister, Barbara Geminder. Linda leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering resilience that will be cherished forever by all who knew her.

Linda is survived by her devoted and steadfast husband, Scott, with whom she shared a bond built on love and partnership. She was the proud mother of two beautiful daughters, Carolyn (and her partner, Eugene) and Jennifer Conboy (and her husband, Ryan). Her greatest joy in life was her three beloved grandchildren, Noah, Hunter, and Rowan, who brought her immense happiness and pride. Linda was also a loving sister to Gladys Melon, Shirley Dzyak, and Frank McCloud, and a treasured sister-in-law, aunt and friend to many. Throughout her life, Linda built deep connections with her extended family, her friends, who became family and the dedicated medical team who supported her for so many years.

A graduate of Montclair HS and Bloomfield College, Linda spent many years working for Prudential Insurance, but her true calling was always the love and care she gave to her family, friends, and the animals she adored. She was known in her family as the "animal whisperer," and her kindness and affinity for animals touched the hearts of many. No furry friend ever found its way to Linda’s heart without being greeted with love and understanding.

Linda's greatest pride, however, was being a mother. She devoted herself to her daughters with an open heart, always guiding them with wisdom, love, and strength. She watched with admiration as they grew into women who reflected the same values she instilled in them: resilience, kindness, and compassion.

Throughout her long battle with scleroderma, Linda showed an incredible strength of spirit. She faced every challenge without complaint, demonstrating grace in the hardest of moments. When the disease led to the need for a lung transplant, Linda accepted this new chapter with determination. Thanks to the generosity of a selfless organ donor, Linda was given the precious gift of life once more. This gift allowed her to live her remaining years to the fullest—traveling, spending time with her family, and bringing joy into the life of her senior dog, Dottie, whom she adopted with great happiness, giving her a forever home and a new lease on life.

Linda believed in the goodness of others and focused on building relationships rather than accumulating material wealth. She lived her life with an open mind, a kind heart, and a sharp sense of humor that lit up every room she entered. Her eyes sparkled with the joy of life, and her positivity inspired all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Linda’s life was a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of love, and the beauty of connection. She was a woman who showed that wealth is not found in possessions but in the depth of the relationships we build. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

May you rest in peace, Linda, with your gentle spirit shining brightly, forever guiding those who loved you. You will be missed more than words can express

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, a cause that was close to Linda’s heart. (1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731)

A visitation for Linda will be held Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753, with a funeral service at 2:00 PM.

Immediately following the visitation, the family would love you to join them for a Catered Dinner Repast at the funeral home.