Mary M. Ritchie

Salem, MA — Mary M. Ritchie, daughter of Jack E. Ritchie and Rebecca Pierson Ritchie, died peacefully with family by her side on Tuesday the 11th of April, 2017, at The Residence at Riverbend, Ipswich, MA.

Born in 1929 in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, Mary received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from Goucher College in Towson, Maryland. She began her career path at the Museum of Fine Art, in Boston, from 1952-1962, where she cultivated her interest in Asian Art. Mary later found work closer to home (Marblehead), at the Essex Institute in Salem where she worked as an Assistant Librarian, Cataloger and Assistant Curator from 1963 to 1986. Mary transitioned to specialized clerical work at the Salem Five Mortgage Corporation and Hanover Insurance Company from 1986-1994.

Throughout her life Mary was passionately involved with training and showing Welsh Corgis. Her beloved pets won many ribbons and honors in dog shows over the years. She was a dedicated member of the Mayflower Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club and the North Shore Kennel Club. Mary enjoyed reading, travel, and socializing with friends, and had a great sense of humor, quick wit, and knack for telling detailed and humorous stories. Mary's gracious, warm personality and wonderful smile could light up a room.

Mary is survived by her sister, Rebecca R. Baum, her nieces; Sarah Baum, Elizabeth Baum, Alice Goodrich, Martha Pomper and nephews; Stephen Baum, David Baum, Tony Pomper, Michael Pomper and grandnieces; Julia and Monica Baum.

A celebration of Mary’s life is planned for mid-July.

Donations may be made in Mary's memory to: The Peabody Essex Museum, c/o Amanda C. MacMullan, East India Square (161 Essex St.) Salem, MA 01970 (978) 542-1824 or via www.pem.org.