Ethel Ritchie, 94, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025 in Novi, Michigan. Ethel was born on July 30, 1930, in Wyandotte, Michigan, to Ben and Theresa Payton. She grew up on a farm in Ellsworth Kansas and attended the University of Kansas where she obtained a nursing degree. Ethel met Lee on a trip to Michigan and they married on January 13, 1952. She worked as a nurse after college and in her empty nest years she worked as a tax preparer for H & R Block. Ethel and Lee lived for many years in Allen Park, Michigan where they raised their children. They enjoyed their retirement years in Lakeland Florida and at Fox Run in Novi, MI. Ethel was a passionate reader, gardener, and bridge player. She was a devoted grandmother to her granddaughter Allison who always made her laugh.
Ethel was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lee, and her siblings, Ben, Betty, Bernice, Margaret, and Ray. She is survived by her loving children, Martha, Ron, Mark (Barb), as well as her cherished granddaughter, Allison.
Ethel will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, her gentle wisdom, and her love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Visitation Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 10:30 AM until time of funeral service at 12:00 PM at the O'Brien-Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375. A luncheon for family and friends will follow.
Memorial contributions may be directed to American Parkinson Disease Association, APDA, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306. www.apdaparkinson.org