Ray Everett Ritchie

Ray Everett Ritchie, a beloved resident of Iron Station, NC, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, just shy of his 83rd birthday. Born in North Carolina, Ray embodied the spirit of friendliness and warmth, qualities that endeared him to everyone he met.

Ray was a hard-working and dedicated truck driver who spent his career hauling big equipment. Known affectionately as "Dad"," Husband ","Pawpaw,", "Grand-Paw" and "friend," His dear friends Jerry Edwards and Gary Burch referred to him as "Papa," in return, he referred to them as his adopted sons who always were there to help in any way. Ray never met a stranger. His infectious smile and welcoming nature made him a cherished presence in the community, especially at his beach place or while meeting new people on the pier.

Ray was a high school graduate who excelled in the school of life. He was a proud Dale Earnhardt fan and a hot rod enthusiast with the desire of collecting all things interesting. His interests were as diverse as they were abundant; he enjoyed fishing, particularly from Apache Pier, golfing, RV-camping, and was a true junk collector at heart.

Many will fondly remember Ray and his wife Robin, who played Santa and Mrs. Claus, respectively, sharing joy and magic with children. Ray's perpetual red shirt beneath his overalls kept the enchantment of Santa alive year-round.

Ray was preceded in death by his loving parents, Luther Gaston and Lucy Long Ritchie, his brothers Glen and Neal Ritchie, his son Todd Ritchie, and an infant boy and girl. He is survived by his devoted wife, Robin Puckett Ritchie, children Jacklan Nicole Luarca (Doug), Marcus Eric Ritchie (Savannah Craig ), and grandchildren Nicholas Davis (Sharyce), Melanie Davis, Christopher Shockley, Leah Bedingfield (Collin), Miles Ritchie and Kinley Craig. His legacy is also carried on by his great-grandchildren Patrick Davis and River Davis-Rains, who will cherish the memories and stories of their great-grandfather. Ray dearly loved his numerous nieces and nephews as well. His dogs Sadie and Rascal, were also loved and an integral part of his family.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Ray's remarkable life at a funeral service held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Alexis, North Carolina, on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2:00 pm. Ron Ritchie and Nathan Morton will officiate. A visitation will follow after the service. Arrangements are provided by Woodlawn Funeral Home.

Ray Ritchie leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and joy—a life well-lived, filled with passion and a deep connection to family, friends, and the community. He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

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