Jane Carlene Webster Ritchie, 88, of Dayton, passed away on November 17, 2023 at Bridgewater Retirement Community’s Harmony House. Her mind remained sharp, but her body failed her. Born at home in Harrisonburg on March 26, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Olin A. and Edith H. (Berry) Webster.
In 1958, Jane married Robert “Bobby” Ritchie, who preceded her in death on February 13, 2011. A brother, Olin B. Webster, also preceded her in death.
She is survived by numerous nephews and nieces and their children of the Ritchie, Webster and Lough families.
Jane attended Harrisonburg High School, received a BA and MA from Madison College, and became a licensed professional counselor. She retired as Turner Ashby’s Coordinator of Guidance in 2000. The students and her coworkers felt like family to her. The frequent gatherings with colleagues during retirement held a special place in her heart.
Jane prized cats of every variety and Golden Retrievers were her passion. She was an active board member in the Shenandoah Valley Kennel Club as well as the SPCA. Jane was a major contributor to the adoption program at the Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA. Mrs. Ritchie established scholarships for Blue Ridge Community College’s Veterinary Technician program.
The Ritchies loved JMU sports and UVA basketball. One snowy evening, they packed their soft-top Jeep with blankets, apples and water in case they got caught in the blizzard to cheer for Ralph Sampson as he played basketball for UVA.
Jane and Bobby accumulated antiques and collectibles during numerous excursions throughout Canada, New England and the United States. Jane enjoyed the scavenger hunts, filling her home with treasures.
A funeral service for family and close friends will be held Monday, November 27, 2023 at 11 am at Lindsey Funeral Home Chapel in Harrisonburg.
To the staff at Sentara and Bridgewater Retirement Community’s Harmony House, your round-the-clock care was deeply appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, send contributions to Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA, P. O. Box 413, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, in her memory.
Lindsey Funeral Home in Harrisonburg is handling arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.lindseyfuneralhomes.com.
