Robert Thomas Ritter

He was born on July 22, 1951, in Lackawanna, New York, to Mary and John M. Ritter. Shortly after his birth, the family moved to New Milford, New Jersey, where Bob grew up alongside his five siblings: John (Marilyn), Joseph (Carin), Robert “Jim” (Pat), Mary Ann (Roy), and Ann (Jorge). The close bonds they shared throughout childhood remained a treasured part of his life.

Bob graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1969 before attending the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. There he met Lucinda “Cindy” Smith, the love of his life, beginning a partnership that would span more than five decades and be filled with laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 1973 and built a distinguished career marked by integrity, intelligence, and thoughtful leadership.

Bob began his career with Arthur Young & Company and later worked for Lesney Products and American Cyanamid in New Jersey. After returning to Virginia, he joined WLR Foods and later Brinks, where he served as Chief Financial Officer until his retirement in 2008.

Retirement gave Bob the opportunity to devote more time to the causes and people he cared about most. Believing deeply in the transformative power of education, he served for many years as an active board member of the Virginia Literacy Foundation, helping create opportunities for others to learn and thrive.

Bob approached life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and purpose. A former William & Mary lacrosse player, he remained active by cycling thousands of miles and pursuing a lifelong passion for golf. He and Cindy also shared a love of cooking and traveled extensively around the world. Bob delighted in planning each trip, researching destinations, learning a bit of the local language, and understanding the customs and history before they arrived. For him, every journey was an opportunity to learn as much as to explore.

Whether reading a good book, planning the next adventure, or enjoying time with family and friends, Bob embraced life wholeheartedly. He was known for his quick wit, generous spirit, and quiet warmth. His humor put people at ease, and he had a remarkable gift for making others smile.

Above all, Bob cherished the life he shared with Cindy. He made her laugh every day—a simple yet extraordinary gift that reflected the joy, love, and friendship at the heart of their marriage.

Bob will be remembered for his kindness, curiosity, intelligence, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Though he is no longer with us, the laughter he inspired, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.