Alvin was born on January 25, 1947. He grew up working in the grocery business helping his father run a corner store. He went on to enjoy a long career as a wholesale bread distributor for Rainbo, Hostess, and Sara Lee, famously bartering with Frito Lay distributors to get salty snacks.
He was married to Cecilia Ritchie, with whom he raised two children. His second marriage was to Jackie Solice. Single in his later years, Alvin was preceded in death by his sister Debbie, a deep loss and the first time he openly grieved. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Lemuel Watts “Buck” and Virginia Mae “Cotton”. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Kenny and Virginia; his sister and brother-in-law, Nelda and Buford; his son, Jamey; and his son and daughter-in-law, Jason and Ella. He is also survived by extended family, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his work ethic, waking at 3:30 a.m. and working six days a week. He showed what an honest day of work looks like. He also showed how to save patiently and spend cautiously. He cared about his sons, promoted education, and encouraged their abilities.
He will also be remembered for his love of smoking cigars, chewing tobacco, watching old Western movies, playing Dominoes, and consuming all things junk food. Some of his grandchildren’s fondest memories are of browsing the shelves of the bread truck parked in Paw Paw Alvin’s driveway and picking out Honeybuns and other sweet treats. In retirement, he bonded over Burger King, cold-cut sandwiches, sweets, snacks, and soda, frequently sending the grandkids home with armfuls of loot. No matter the difficulties he was facing, his grandchildren made him smile. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cashnerconroe.com for the Ritchie family.
God, have mercy on his soul.
