George Clyde Ritchie

He was the son of the late Otho Clyde (O.C.) Ritchie and Viola Florence Wise Ritchie. At an early age, George began honing his woodcraft skills watching and working with his father in the family business of Oyama Cabinet while attending St. Stephens until he left to serve his country in the U. S. Army. Upon his return from serving in Vietnam, the proud veteran returned to the family business where he spent a lifetime of designing and crafting numerous wood products, many of which became heritage pieces in homes, businesses, and churches.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Charlie Marcus Ritchie (Rachel Starnes); sister, Imogene Ritchie Marlowe Haas (Dick); and brother-in-law, Opie Wilson.

He is survived by his wife, best friend, and partner of 31 years, Cathy Smith. He is survived by sister, Lorene Ritchie Wilson. He was “Uncle George” to several nephews and nieces. In addition, he is survived by Cathy’s brother and sister-in-law, Sam and Frances McCracken.

The community is served by the numerous hours, equipment, and work that George Ritchie donated in the restoration and preservation of historical trains as a member of the Alexander Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society and was named the first-ever Board Emeritus. He was a member of the American Legion Post 48 where he regularly attended meetings and events.

George Clyde Ritchie was a lifelong member of Tabernacle Baptist Church

The visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 24, at Hickory Funeral Home, 1031 11th Ave. Blvd. SE, Hickory, NC 28602.

The service will be held on Saturday, April 25, at 2:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church,1225 29th Ave. Dr. NE, Hickory, NC 28601, with military honors at the church. Rev. Scott Hooks will be officiating the service, a private burial is planned.

Pallbearers include Chuck Ritchie, Allen Wilson, Michael Marlowe, Michael Brannock, Billy Brannock, and Seth Brannock.

Memorials for George Clyde Ritchie may be made to the Tabernacle Building Fund and mailed to 1225 29th Ave. Dr. NE, Hickory, NC 28601 or to the Alexander Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society (NRHS) and mailed to 1123 N. Main Ave., Newton, NC 28658.