Joseph E Ritchie Jr.

Joe was born in Ogdensburg to Joseph and Ellen “Phyllis” (Rumble) Ritchie. He graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy and continued his education at SUNY Canton, where he earned a degree as a registered nurse.

Joe dedicated 39 years of his life to caring for others at both A. Barton Hepburn Hospital as a treatment coordinator and mental health director and the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center as a nurse administrator. He was also a MIT member and a nurse administrator at the SOTP Unit until his retirement. His compassion, dedication, and genuine concern for those in his care touched countless lives.

Although Joe’s earlier marriages had ended, he found lasting happiness with his longtime companion, Jema McDougal of Ogdensburg. He also held a special place in his heart for Jema’s children, Brinna and Ciara McDougal of Macomb, who he loved like his own children.

Joe enjoyed many of the simple pleasures of life, including hunting, fishing, sailing, and kayaking. He especially loved spending time along the St. Lawrence River, watching its beautiful sunsets. To his many close friends, Joe was a loyal, caring, and unforgettable friend whose presence brought warmth and companionship to their lives.

Joe is survived by his sisters, Margaret Garman of Ogdensburg and Susan Ritchie of Florida; his longtime companion, Jema McDougal of Ogdensburg; Jema’s children, Brinna and Ciara McDougal of Macomb; three nephews, Matthew, Sean, and Lukas Garman; and numerous close friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Ellen “Phyllis” Ritchie, and his sister, Phyllis Garman.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alliance for the Mentally Ill or the SPCA in Joe’s memory.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.