Bobby Ray Ritchie, born August 24, 1937, went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 1, 2026, leaving a legacy marked by steadfast faith, devoted love of family, and a life lived with both diligence and warmth.
A longtime resident of High Point, North Carolina, Bobby Ray will be remembered for the way he showed up for others—with a compassionate spirit, a ready sense of humor, and the kind of hard-working constancy that earns deep respect.
Born in Guilford County to the late Clifford Ray and Louise Napier Ritchie, Bobby Ray graduated from High Point High School (later known as Central High School). From early on, he carried forward values of commitment and perseverance that would remain evident throughout his life.
Bobby Ray served in the Air Force for four years before beginning his career with Piedmont Natural Gas. He worked for over 30 years before retiring, a testament to the steady dedication he brought to his responsibilities and to the people who relied on him.
In personal moments, Bobby Ray was known as the life of the party. He loved to dance and have a good time, and his humor and joy could brighten a room—an easy, genuine gift that friends and family came to cherish.
A faithful member of Westchester Baptist Church, Bobby Ray put his devotion into action. He helped prepare meals for families going through bereavement and for other special occasions held at the church, offering comfort in practical ways and reflecting a compassionate heart rooted in service.
Preceding Bobby Ray’s death are his parents, his wife, Joyce Williams Ritchie, and his sister Gail Ritchie Atkins.
Survivors to cherish Bobby Ray’s memories are his son, Bobby Wayne Ritchie (Janet), his daughter, Sherry Lynn Ritchie, five grandchildren: Zach Ritchie (Ashley), Mary Katherine Huggins (Britt), Joshua Lay (Kayla), Andrea Lay, and Jessica Lay, eleven great-grandchildren: Hayes Ritchie, Hudson Ritchie, Palmer Huggins, Parker Huggins, Taelyn Andrada, Carsen Oneal, Khaviah Xanavongxay, Lynleigh Lay, Sawyer Lay, Benson Lay and Kashton Lay, and his special friend, Carolyn Deer.
A Memorial Service for Bobby Ray will be held September 9, 2026, at 12 p.m. at Westchester Baptist Church in High Point, NC. The family will receive friends one hour prior of service. Burial will follow at Floral Garden Park Cemetery of High Point, NC.
The family is under the care of Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations. Online condolences may be shared at www.SechrestDavisPhillipsAvenue.com – select obituaries.
